Top Spinal Cord Inj Rehabil, 2012 · DOI: 10.1310/sci1802-140 · Published: January 1, 2012
This study examines the forces required to propel a manual wheelchair over various obstacles encountered in daily life for individuals with spinal cord injuries. The SmartWheel device was used to measure the peak force exerted during wheelchair propulsion over surfaces like tile, carpet, ramps, and curbs. The findings indicate that more force is needed to navigate more challenging obstacles, which has implications for understanding and preventing upper limb pain in wheelchair users.
Clinicians should consider the increased forces required for advanced wheelchair skills to minimize upper limb strain and prevent pain.
Wheelchair users should be educated on techniques to minimize force during propulsion, especially when navigating obstacles.
Proper wheelchair fit and the use of lightweight wheelchairs are important factors to minimize force during propulsion.