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Seating-Related Pressure Injury Prevention in Spinal Cord Injury: A Review of Compensatory Technologies to Improve In-Seat Movement Behavior

Curr Phys Med Rehabil Rep, 2016 · DOI: 10.1007/s40141-016-0140-7 · Published: December 1, 2016

Spinal Cord InjuryAssistive TechnologyDermatology

Simple Explanation

This review examines how technology can help people with spinal cord injuries (SCI) move while sitting to prevent pressure injuries. Pressure injuries are a common and serious problem for wheelchair users with SCI because they spend a lot of time sitting and may not have sensation to cue them to move. The review looks at different types of technologies that have been developed to remind or encourage wheelchair users to shift their weight. These technologies include prompts, alarms, and feedback systems that provide information about pressure and movement. The authors conclude that optimized feedback about pressure and movement can help wheelchair users with SCI perform more effective movements to relieve pressure and maintain these behaviors over time. They suggest that future technologies should involve wheelchair users in the design and testing process.

Study Duration
Not specified
Participants
Not specified
Evidence Level
Level 5, Review

Key Findings

  • 1
    Risk factors for seating-related pressure injuries are well documented, yet ulceration remains a daily concern for individuals with SCI.
  • 2
    While prompts and alarms have been shown to be effective at increasing in-seat movement, the devices thus far were not designed for long-term use.
  • 3
    Optimized feedback about pressure and movement will help wheelchair users with SCI perform more effective movements to relieve pressure.

Research Summary

This review assessed factors related to pressure injuries in people with SCI, methods of pressure injury prevention, and compensatory technologies developed to promote in-seat movement. Risk factors for seating-related pressure injuries are well documented. Prompts and alarms can increase in-seat movement, but existing devices are not designed for long-term use. Wheelchair users need novel technologies to self-manage pressure injury prevention. Optimized feedback about pressure and movement will help wheelchair users with SCI perform more effective and frequent movements to relieve pressure and maintain these behaviors over time.

Practical Implications

Technology Design

Future technologies should be designed for long-term use and should involve wheelchair users in the design and testing process.

Clinical Practice

Clinicians should consider using prompts, alarms, and feedback systems to encourage in-seat movement and pressure relief behaviors.

Self-Management

Wheelchair users with SCI should be educated about the importance of in-seat movement and pressure relief and provided with tools and strategies to self-manage pressure injury prevention.

Study Limitations

  • 1
    Small sample sizes in many studies
  • 2
    Varied study designs make it difficult to identify specific protective movements
  • 3
    Reliance on self-report in some studies

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