Distinct tilting behaviours with power tilt-in-space systems

Area of Science:

• Rehabilitation Engineering
• Assistive Technology
• Biomechanics

Background:

• Tilt-in-space (TiS) systems are crucial for power wheelchair users to manage posture and pressure distribution.
• Understanding TiS usage patterns is essential for effective prescription and training.

Purpose of the Study:

• To characterize the utilization of tilt-in-space systems in daily power wheelchair use.
• To develop evidence-based recommendations for TiS prescription and user training.

Main Methods:

• Objective monitoring of wheelchair position and occupancy using accelerometers and data loggers for 45 power wheelchair users over 1-2 weeks.
• Collection of demographic data, pressure ulcer history, and functional/physical disability characteristics.

Main Results:

• Participants used wheelchairs for 12.1 hours daily, with a median typical tilt of 8°.
• Tilting occurred every 27 minutes, but pressure-relieving tilts (≥30° for ≥1 min) were infrequent, averaging once every 10 hours.
• 19% of seated time was spent tilted past 15°, with 17 participants frequently changing positions while others remained in a narrow tilt range.

Conclusions:

• Current pressure relief compliance with TiS systems is limited, suggesting a need for alternative strategies and enhanced user training.
• Wheelchair design and prescription practices should consider user preferences for frequent position changes and smaller tilt angles.