Wheelchair Propulsion Biomechanics and a Wheelers’ Quality of Life: An Exploratory Review
By Chow, John W.; Levy, Charles E.; Disability and Rehabilitation: Assistive Technology, Volume 6, Number 5, pages 365-377Publication Date: September 2011
Study was undertaken to provide an overview of associations between wheelchair propulsion biomechanics for both everyday and racing wheelchairs, wheeling related upper limb injuries, and quality of life of manual wheelchair users through a synthesis of the available information. A search of publications was performed in PubMed and SportsDiscus databases. Studies on wheelchair propulsion biomechanics, upper limb injuries associated with wheelchair propulsion, and quality of life of wheelchair users were identified. Relevant articles cited in identified articles but not cited in PubMed or SportsDiscus were also included. The study of wheelchair propulsion biomechanics was found to focus on how a wheelchair user imparts power to the wheels to achieve mobility. Studies indicated that wheelchair sports participation has positive impact on quality of life, and research in racing wheelchair biomechanics can indirectly promote the visibility of wheelchair sports. The impact of pushrim activated power assisted wheelchairs (PAPAWs, a hybrid between manual and battery powered wheelchairs) and geared manual wheels on wheelchair users’ everyday life was also discussed. The accumulated knowledge gained from these studies can help to improve wheelchair users’ mobility, reduce physical stress associated with wheelchair propulsion and, as a result, enhance quality of life.
Published by: Taylor & Francis, Limited (Website:http://taylorandfrancis.org)
International Society of Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine (Web Site: http://www.isprm.org )
