A motor learning approach to training wheelchair propulsion biomechanics for new manual wheelchair users: A pilot study

This study tested a wheelchair training program for new manual wheelchair users with spinal cord injuries. The program focused on improving how they propel their wheelchairs using motor learning principles. The training involved nine sessions and aimed to teach more effective and safer propulsion techniques to prevent injuries. Researchers measured changes in propulsion biomechanics and wheelchair skills before and after the training program.

• 1
  The training led to significant changes in the area of the push loop, indicating that participants were bringing their hands down toward the axles of their wheelchairs during propulsion.
• 2
  Participants also showed improvements in push effectiveness and speed after the training.
• 3
  There was a significant decrease in the slope of the force, which may indicate a decrease in the rate of loading the force onto the pushrim.