Power seat function usage and wheelchair discomfort for power wheelchair users

The Journal of Spinal Cord Medicine, 2017 · DOI: 10.1080/10790268.2016.1192360 · Published: January 1, 2017

Simple Explanation

This study examines the relationship between how often power wheelchair users utilize their power seat functions (PSFs) and the discomfort they experience while sitting in their wheelchairs. The research found that increasing the use of tilt, recline, and legrest functions is correlated with a decrease in discomfort intensity, suggesting that these features can help alleviate seating discomfort. However, the study also found a positive correlation between the use of legrests and discomfort, indicating the importance of proper education and caution when using this feature.

Study Duration

8 weeks

Participants

13 power wheelchair users

Evidence Level

Quasi-experimental design: Time series design

Key Findings

1
The frequency of using tilt, recline, and legrest functions is significantly correlated with discomfort intensity.
2
Tilt, recline, and legrest functions can explain 43.8% of the variance in the discomfort intensity score.
3
The frequency of using the legrest function was the top node in the decision tree for predicting discomfort intensity, followed by recline and tilt functions.

Research Summary

This study investigated the correlation between power seat function (PSF) usage and wheelchair discomfort in power wheelchair users. The results indicated that increasing the frequency of using tilt and recline functions is associated with decreased wheelchair discomfort intensity. The study also found a positive correlation between the frequency of using legrests and wheelchair discomfort intensity, highlighting the need for proper education and caution when using this function.

Practical Implications

Promote Dynamic Sitting

Encourage power wheelchair users to regularly use PSFs to change posture and reduce discomfort.

Educate on Legrest Use

Provide education on the appropriate use of legrests, emphasizing the importance of coordinating with recline to avoid poor posture.

Develop Targeted Interventions

Design interventions to facilitate and encourage the appropriate use of PSFs to improve wheelchair comfort.

Study Limitations

1
Correlation tests do not prove causation.
2
Small sample size of thirteen participants.
3
Some participants did not consistently increase PSF usage after receiving educational materials.

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