Mobile App (WHEELS) to Promote a Healthy Lifestyle in Wheelchair Users With Spinal Cord Injury or Lower Limb Amputation: Usability and Feasibility Study

JMIR Formative Research, 2021 · DOI: 10.2196/24909 · Published: August 9, 2021

Spinal Cord Injury Orthopedics Telehealth & Digital Health

Simple Explanation

This study developed a mobile app called WHEELS to help wheelchair users with spinal cord injury or lower limb amputation lead healthier lifestyles. The app provides tools and information to support physical activity, healthy eating, and better sleep habits. A pilot study tested the app's usability and feasibility, finding promising results for improving body composition and lifestyle behaviors.

Study Duration

12 weeks

Participants

21 wheelchair users with SCI or LLA

Evidence Level

Pilot study

Key Findings

1
The WHEELS app was successfully developed with 16 behavior change strategies.
2
Participants showed positive developments in body composition, including reduced waist circumference and fat mass percentage.
3
A trend toward improved sleep quality and reduced fat and alcohol intake was observed.

Research Summary

The WHEELS mHealth app was developed for wheelchair users with SCI or LLA, aiming to improve lifestyle behaviors. A 12-week pilot study explored the app's usability, feasibility, and effectiveness, with participants receiving either remote-guided or stand-alone intervention. Results showed varied user experience, reasonable usability scores, and promising developments in body composition and lifestyle changes.

Practical Implications

Personalized App Content

Tailor exercises and nutrition advice to individual abilities and needs to improve user engagement.

Enhanced User Support

Provide a help desk or coaching to assist users with app navigation and goal setting.

Integration with Activity Monitors

Connect the app to wearable activity monitors to provide better insight into energy expenditure and physical activity levels.

Study Limitations

1
Small sample size may limit the generalizability of the findings.
2
High dropout rate could bias the user experience results.
3
Self-reported physical activity measures may not accurately reflect actual activity levels.

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