Wise Young
09-27-2001, 09:53 AM
http://www.rehabtrials.org/Trials/RCEC082K.shtml
Effects of Cushion and Back Support on Wheelchair Ride Comfort
Principal Investigator: Rory A. Cooper, Ph.D.
Contact (if different): thormant@pitt.edu
Institution: VA Pittsburgh Healthcare System,
The University of Pittsburgh/UPMC
Website:
Funding source: VA Rehabilitation R & D
Status:
Last Updated: 08/03/00
Primary objective: This study is designed to measure true road loads (vibrations and shocks) and perceived ride comfort of manual wheelchair users during the performance of common wheelchair maneuvers while using cushions and back supports of various designs. Vibrations and shocks have been associated with secondary injuries of the back, such as low back pain. The risk of injury may be increased for individuals with a spinal cord injury; therefore, the measurement of the vibrations and shocks an individual encounters is important for the design of cushions and back supports. The individual propels his/her manual wheelchair with over a closed course that will include simulations of obstacles encountered in day-to-day travel. The information gathered during this investigation will help in the design of future generations of cushions and back supports.
Other: We are looking at various seat cushions and back supports to see how force and vibration effects perceived ride comfort for manual wheelchair users.
Effects of Cushion and Back Support on Wheelchair Ride Comfort
Principal Investigator: Rory A. Cooper, Ph.D.
Contact (if different): thormant@pitt.edu
Institution: VA Pittsburgh Healthcare System,
The University of Pittsburgh/UPMC
Website:
Funding source: VA Rehabilitation R & D
Status:
Last Updated: 08/03/00
Primary objective: This study is designed to measure true road loads (vibrations and shocks) and perceived ride comfort of manual wheelchair users during the performance of common wheelchair maneuvers while using cushions and back supports of various designs. Vibrations and shocks have been associated with secondary injuries of the back, such as low back pain. The risk of injury may be increased for individuals with a spinal cord injury; therefore, the measurement of the vibrations and shocks an individual encounters is important for the design of cushions and back supports. The individual propels his/her manual wheelchair with over a closed course that will include simulations of obstacles encountered in day-to-day travel. The information gathered during this investigation will help in the design of future generations of cushions and back supports.
Other: We are looking at various seat cushions and back supports to see how force and vibration effects perceived ride comfort for manual wheelchair users.