Wheelchair Skill Performance of Manual Wheelchair Users With Spinal Cord Injury

Top Spinal Cord Inj Rehabil, 2012 · DOI: 10.1310/sci1802-138 · Published: January 1, 2012

Spinal Cord Injury Assistive Technology Rehabilitation

Simple Explanation

This study examined wheelchair skill performance of manual wheelchair users with SCI among 6 Model SCI Systems (MSCIS). The participants completed a self-report questionnaire that captured demographic information such as age, sex, race, level of injury, and duration of injury. The Wheelchair Skills Test (WST) (version 4.1) for manual wheelchair users was administered to each participant to evaluate their ability to complete 32 skills.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

212 individuals with traumatic SCI

Evidence Level

Not specified

Key Findings

1
A majority of the manual wheelchair users were unable to complete the community and advanced level WST skills.
2
Over 70% of participants were unable to ascend and 50% were unable to descend a 15-cm curb.
3
39% of participants were unable to maintain a stationary wheelie position for 30 s.

Research Summary

The study examined wheelchair skill performance of manual wheelchair users with SCI. Many participants had difficulty performing community and advanced level skills. Additional wheelchair skills training may be advantageous.

Practical Implications

Targeted Training Programs

Develop targeted training programs to improve specific wheelchair skills, such as ascending and descending curbs and maintaining a stationary wheelie.

Wheelchair Fitting

Ensure proper wheelchair fitting and adjustment to optimize performance and safety.

Rehabilitation Focus

Emphasize comprehensive wheelchair skills training during rehabilitation to enhance functional independence and participation.

Study Limitations

1
The study did not specify the duration of follow-up or training interventions.
2
The reasons participants were unable to complete skills are multifactorial.
3
The study may be limited by self-report bias.

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