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Low-Impact Wheelchair Propulsion: Achievable and Acceptable

By Richter, W. Mark, PhD; Axelson, Peter W., MSME; Journal of Rehabilitation Research and Development, Vol. 42, No. 3, pp. 21-34
Publication Date: May/June 2005, Supplement I

Study utilized a Variable Compliance Hand-Rim Prototype (VCHP) designed to reduce impact and peak loading on wheelchair handrims during propulsion in order to determine the optimal level of compliance at which impact loading is reduced and user acceptance is preserved. Seventeen people who used manual wheelchairs propelled their wheelchairs using VCHP handrims set to each of three compliance levels through a mobility activity test course and on a multi-grade treadmill. Measures of impact loading, push frequency, peak force, metabolic demand, and user acceptance were assessed. The results indicated that as compliance increased, user acceptance decreased. All of the participants found the lowest level of compliance to be acceptable, while adverse biomechanical side effects to compliance were found. Implications for future research are discussed.
Published by:

VA Rehabilitation Research & Development Service    (Web Site: http://www.rehab.research.va.gov )
This publication is included in the library of the National Rehabilitation Information Center (NARIC), accession number J49744
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