Comparison of Metabolic Cost, Performance, and Efficiency of Propulsion Using an Ergonomic Hand Drive Mechanism and a Conventional Manual Wheelchair

Arch Phys Med Rehabil, 2014 · DOI: 10.1016/j.apmr.2013.08.238 · Published: March 1, 2014

Occupational Health Assistive Technology Rehabilitation

Simple Explanation

This study compares a novel ergonomic hand drive mechanism (EHDM) to a conventional manual wheelchair (CMW) in terms of metabolic cost, performance, and efficiency for wheelchair users. The EHDM was designed to reduce strain injuries, but it's unknown if it affects energy expenditure. The study found that while the EHDM didn't increase metabolic cost, it did result in decreased performance and efficiency compared to the CMW.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

12 adult full-time manual wheelchair users with spinal cord injuries

Evidence Level

Level 2; Repeated measures crossover design

Key Findings

1
Participants traveled significantly farther and faster with the CMW compared to the EHDM.
2
There were no significant differences in the number of pushes, VO2 consumption, or heart rate between the two wheelchair conditions.
3
The CMW condition demonstrated better VO2 efficiency compared to the EHDM condition.

Research Summary

This study compared the metabolic cost, performance, and efficiency of a novel ergonomic hand drive mechanism (EHDM) with a conventional manual wheelchair (CMW) in a group of full-time manual wheelchair users. The results indicated that while the EHDM did not significantly increase metabolic costs, it led to decreased performance (distance traveled and velocity) and efficiency compared to the CMW. The authors suggest that modifications to the EHDM, such as the addition of gearing, could potentially improve its performance and efficiency while maintaining similar metabolic costs.

Practical Implications

Ergonomic Design Considerations

The study highlights the importance of considering both ergonomic benefits and performance efficiency when designing assistive mobility devices.

Potential for EHDM Improvement

Further development and refinement of the EHDM, particularly with the addition of gearing, may improve its performance and efficiency, making it a more viable alternative to the CMW.

Alternative Mobility Option

Despite its current limitations, the EHDM can be considered as an alternative mode of mobility for wheelchair users, especially those who may benefit from its ergonomic design to reduce upper limb strain.

Study Limitations

1
Small and heterogeneous participant group
2
All subjects used the same chair regardless of height and weight
3
Trials may not have been long enough to provide a true test of ergonomic comfort

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