Factors Influencing Incidence of Wheelchair Repairs and Consequences Among Individuals with Spinal Cord Injury

Arch Phys Med Rehabil, 2022 · DOI: 10.1016/j.apmr.2021.01.094 · Published: April 1, 2022

Simple Explanation

This study investigates how often wheelchair users with spinal cord injuries (SCI) experience wheelchair repairs and what the consequences of those repairs are. The research looks at the relationship between wheelchair usage, specific wheelchair components, out-of-pocket costs for repairs, and the number of days the user is affected by the repairs. The goal is to identify factors that increase the likelihood of needing repairs or experiencing negative consequences due to wheelchair breakdowns.

Study Duration

May 2017 and June 2020

Participants

533 wheelchair users with SCI

Evidence Level

Cross-sectional survey

Key Findings

1
Over half of the participants (56%) reported needing wheelchair repairs in the past 6 months.
2
Active wheelchair users, particularly those who frequently traverse community and outdoor surfaces, experienced more repairs and consequences.
3
Black participants and power wheelchair users were more likely to experience both repairs and adverse consequences.

Research Summary

Wheelchair repairs significantly impact over 50% of wheelchair users with spinal cord injury, resulting in substantial financial and personal costs. High repair rates limit participation inside and outside the home, with consequences lasting more than two weeks for many users. Disparities exist based on participant and wheelchair characteristics, with repairs and adverse consequences disproportionately affecting vulnerable individuals with limited financial resources.

Practical Implications

Improved Wheelchair Standards

Advocate for higher standards and more rigorous testing for wheelchair durability to reduce the frequency of breakdowns.

Enhanced Access to Repair Services

Ensure quicker and more accessible repair services to minimize the downtime and adverse consequences experienced by wheelchair users.

User Training and Education

Provide better training to wheelchair users on proper wheelchair maintenance and basic repair techniques to prevent breakdowns and address minor issues promptly.

Study Limitations

1
The study relied on participants' recall of events over the previous 6 months, introducing potential recall bias.
2
The study did not collect data on the number of days it took to complete repairs, limiting the understanding of the service delivery process.
3
Data were collected from SCI Model Systems facilities, which may underestimate the incidence of repairs and consequences in the general population.

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