National Center on Health, Physical Activity and Disability

11/21/2025

Physical education teachers: Do you want your class to be as accessible and adaptive as possible for all students? Do you need professional development hours? Fill out the Lieberman/Brian Inclusion Rating Scale for Physical Education (LIRSPE) and get free resources to support your teaching. You will also receive a certificate of completion for your continuing education credits upon completing the scale.

Learn more about this opportunity here:

  PE Inclusion Solutions Online Solutions for PE and Sports for All About PE Inclusion Solutions Inclusion of children with disabilities in physical education (PE) activities is critical for reducing social isolation, enhancing academic performance, and meeting the recommended physical education gu...

11/18/2025

Looking to improve your wheelchair skills from the comfort of your home? The University of Pittsburgh is searching for adults (18+) with a non-progressive spinal cord injury who use a manual wheelchair at least 50% of the time to participate in a six-week research study to determine the effectiveness of virtual coaching from a peer to improve manual wheelchair skills. Compensation is provided for participants. Learn more here:

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11/14/2025

Episode 18 of our podcast is now available! In this episode, part of our Healthy Holidays series (coming soon), we discuss healthy nutrition habits during the holiday season with Emily McAllister, NCHPAD Registered Dietitian! The episode is available in the link below (along with a transcript) and on all major streaming platforms.

https://www.nchpad.org/resources/podcast-episode-18-healthy-holiday-nutrition-with-emily-mcallister/

In this episode, part of our Healthy Holidays series, we discuss healthy nutrition habits during the holiday season with NCHPAD’s Emily McAllister!

11/10/2025

Our final video in our Manual Mobility Made Easy series covers selecting the right cushions for your manual wheelchair. The individuals in the video share their personal experiences with cushions, pressure mapping, and seating options that promote comfort, posture, and skin health. Learn more in the link:

https://www.nchpad.org/resources/how-to-pick-the-right-wheelchair-cushion-to-prevent-pressure-sores/

In this video, wheelchair users share their experiences with cushions, pressure mapping, and seating options that promote comfort, posture, and skin health.

11/07/2025

In our latest Manual Mobility Made Easy series article, we asked individuals that use manual wheelchairs if they prefer brakes or no brakes. Check out the article to get a breakdown of the pros and cons from personal experiences. Full article:

https://www.nchpad.org/resources/brakes-or-no-brakes-on-manual-wheelchairs/

Are you unsure whether to add brakes to your wheelchair? Our experts weigh in. When it comes to wheelchair accessories, brakes often spark strong opinions. Some wheelchair users view them as an…

11/06/2025

In our latest resource, NCHPAD Expert Information Specialist Bob Lujano discusses centers for independent living (CIL) and how you can get involved! Learn more about the role of CILs, the different ways you can participate and how to connect with your local CIL. Visit the link below to read the full article:

https://www.nchpad.org/resources/unlocking-opportunities-engaging-with-your-states-center-for-independent-living/

How people with disabilities can become active service recipients, staff members, leaders and advocates within their local centers for independent living.

11/05/2025

Our third video in our Manual Mobility Made Easy series dives into insurance coverage for manual wheelchairs. Drawing from personal experiences, this video offers practical guidance on navigating the process of getting a wheelchair covered—whether through private insurance, Medicare, or the VA. Check it out in the link below!

https://www.nchpad.org/resources/wheelchair-costs-decoded-how-to-navigate-insurance-in-2025/

Drawing from personal experiences, this video offers practical guidance on navigating the process of getting a wheelchair covered.

11/03/2025

For individuals who use a manual wheelchair, proper seating can make a huge difference. In our latest article in our Manual Mobility Made Easy series, we break down the different types of cushions, what to consider when selecting a seat, the health risks of improper seating and more. Visit the article here:

https://www.nchpad.org/resources/manual-wheelchairs-and-the-power-of-proper-seating/

For manual wheelchair users, the right seating and positioning aren’t just about comfort—they’re essential for health, mobility and independence. The right seat and back system…

10/31/2025

Halloween for All Tip #5
Don’t forget your teal pumpkin for trick-or-treaters! This signals that your house offers allergy-friendly and sensory-safe treats. Have a Happy Halloween!

10/31/2025

Episode 17 of our podcast is now available! In this episode, we discuss mindfulness and pain management with Dr. Christiane Wolf, an internationally recognized mindfulness and Insight meditation teacher. The episode is available in the link below (along with a transcript) and on all major streaming platforms.

https://www.nchpad.org/resources/podcast-episode-17-managing-pain-with-mindfulness-dr-christiane-wolf/

In this episode, we explore mindfulness and pain management with Dr. Christiane Wolf, an international expert in mindfulness and Insight meditation.

10/29/2025

Our second video in our Manual Mobility Made Easy series focuses on wheelchair weight. The video participants explain why it matters and how it affects everyday life. They share real experiences and talk about how weight influences mobility, independence and long-term shoulder health. Check it out in the link below!

https://www.nchpad.org/resources/wheelchair-weight-why-it-matters-and-what-to-consider/

This conversation explores different frame types, materials, cushions, and accessories, highlighting how each element contributes to overall weight!

10/29/2025

Members of our team had a great time at the Lakeshore Foundation Spooktacular Treat or Trick event! The event promoted a fully accessible trick-or-treating experience for youth with mobility limitations and their families.