Biomechanics of
Manual Wheelchair Propulsion in the Elderly
Principal Investigator: Michael L. Boninger, MD
2006-2007
There is very limited research on
manual wheelchair use and mobility in the elderly. The absence of good research
means that there is no evidence to evaluate Center for Medicare Services policies
that impact the elderly. The long term goal of this research is to improve
mobility for the elderly who require manual wheelchairs. Specifically, we are
investigating the effect of rear axle position, wheelchair weight, and surface
rolling resistance on the biomechanics of wheelchair propulsion in a cohort of
elderly individuals representing various degrees of frailty.
Population: Men and women
age 65 and older.
Specific Aims: Primary Aim: To determine
the impact of wheelchair weight, axle position, and rolling resistance on
manual wheelchair propulsion biomechanics in a group of elderly individuals
with various degrees of frailty. Secondary
Aim: To assess the relationship of two novel measures of functional
performance; a maximal isometric wheelchair
push force and total 6 minute wheel distance, with a traditional measure of
function, velocity, and selected propulsion biomechanics in a group of elderly
individuals with various degrees of frailty .
Methods: Participants
will propel in four wheelchair configurations (2 axle positions and 2 weight
conditions) across four different surfaces while pushrim biomechanics are
recorded. Participants will also
complete a six minute wheel and isometric wheelchair push as measures of
functional performance. Outcome variables of interest include cadence,
self-selected velocity, Rating of Perceived Exertion (RPE), resultant force,
effective force, maximal force (isometric test), and total distance traveled (6
min. wheel).
Future Use of Data: Our intent is to use the information gathered from this project to develop a larger proposal exploring how proper wheelchair prescription can meet the mobility needs of the elderly.