Interface Pressure Measurement in People With Multiple Sclerosis: Relationship Between Two Methods of Output Interpretation
By Stinson, May; Crawford, Shelley; Porter-Armstrong, Alison; Eakin, Pamela; RESNA 26th International Annual Conference 2003,Publication Date: 2003
Study conducted to investigate the use of pressure mapping as means of pressure care assessment for people with multiple sclerosis who are at risk for pressure sores. Twenty-seven participants were recruited from the Multiple Sclerosis Society’s Resource Center in Belfast, Ireland. The participants were divided into two groups based on their mobility status. Group A consisted of people who used wheelchairs, while Group B included people who did not use assistive devices for mobility. All participants were encouraged to adopt an upright sitting position with their arms placed in their laps. Clients were assessed on six pre-selected cushions and their current seating system. Pressure measurements were recorded after the clients spent eight consecutive minutes sitting. The pressure maps were visually ranked by the researchers from “best” to “poorest” pressure distribution for each client. Good pressure distribution was characterized by a good spread of pressure over the seating surface, with no areas of excessively high pressure over bony prominences. Results showed no correlation between the visual ranking of maps for pressure distribution and average pressures. The authors contend that results from the study highlight the need for regular pressure care review, and emphasize the need for people with multiple sclerosis to be given the opportunity to try different pressure-reducing cushions.
Published by: Rehabilitation Engineering & Assistive Technology Society of North America (RESNA) (Website:http://www.resna.org)
