Duration of Static and Dynamic Periods of the Upper Arm During Daily Life of Manual Wheelchair Users and Matched Able-Bodied Participants: A Preliminary Report

Frontiers in Sports and Active Living, 2021 · DOI: 10.3389/fspor.2021.603020 · Published: March 26, 2021

Spinal Cord Injury Assistive Technology Biomechanics

Simple Explanation

This study investigates how manual wheelchair (MWC) users and able-bodied individuals use their arms differently during daily life, focusing on static and dynamic movements in various arm elevation ranges. The study found that MWC users spend more time using their arms dynamically at higher elevations compared to able-bodied individuals, potentially due to activities like transfers and reaching. The research also found that as MWC users age, their dynamic arm use decreases, particularly in the range used for wheelchair propulsion, which may impact their shoulder health.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

44 MWC users and 44 age- and sex-matched controls

Evidence Level

Not specified

Key Findings

1
MWC users spent significantly more time dynamic in 60–90◦and 90–120◦on the dominant arm compared to controls.
2
Controls spent significantly more time dynamic in 0–30◦of humeral elevation on both arms.
3
The MWC cohort had a moderate association of increased age with decreased time dynamic in 30–60◦for both arms.

Research Summary

This study used wearable sensors to examine arm use patterns in manual wheelchair users (MWC) and able-bodied controls, focusing on static and dynamic arm movements at different humeral elevation ranges. The findings showed that MWC users spend more time dynamically using their arms at higher elevations than controls, likely due to the nature of daily activities performed from a seated position. The research also revealed an association between increased age and decreased dynamic arm use in MWC users, particularly in the humeral elevation range associated with wheelchair propulsion.

Practical Implications

Understanding Risk Factors

Identifying specific arm movements and elevations that contribute to shoulder pathology in MWC users can inform targeted interventions.

Informing Ergonomic Interventions

The data on arm use during daily life can be used to design better wheelchair setups and ergonomic strategies to reduce strain on the shoulders.

Developing Age-Specific Interventions

Recognizing the impact of aging on arm use patterns allows for the development of interventions tailored to older MWC users to maintain shoulder health.

Duration of Static and Dynamic Periods of the Upper Arm During Daily Life of Manual Wheelchair Users and Matched Able-Bodied Participants: A Preliminary Report

Simple Explanation

Key Findings

Research Summary

Practical Implications

Understanding Risk Factors

Informing Ergonomic Interventions

Developing Age-Specific Interventions

Study Limitations

Your Feedback

Was this summary helpful?

Duration of Static and Dynamic Periods of the Upper Arm During Daily Life of Manual Wheelchair Users and Matched Able-Bodied Participants: A Preliminary Report

Simple Explanation

Key Findings

Research Summary

Practical Implications

Understanding Risk Factors

Informing Ergonomic Interventions

Developing Age-Specific Interventions

Study Limitations

Your Feedback

Was this summary helpful?