Exercise training programs to improve hand rim wheelchair propulsion capacity: a systematic review

Area of Science:

• Rehabilitation Medicine
• Sports Science
• Biomechanics

Background:

• Wheelchair propulsion capacity is crucial for daily life activities.
• Exercise training is a potential method to enhance wheelchair propulsion.
• Limited research exists on the effectiveness of various exercise programs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the effectiveness of different exercise training programs on wheelchair propulsion capacity.
• To analyze improvements in cardio-respiratory fitness, anaerobic capacity, muscular fitness, and mechanical efficiency.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review of studies from PubMed and EMBASE databases.
• Inclusion of studies measuring wheelchair propulsion capacity parameters.
• Categorization of training into interval, endurance, strength, and mixed types.
• Assessment of methodological quality using the PEDro scale.

Main Results:

• Interval training significantly improved wheelchair propulsion capacity by 18-64%.
• Endurance training showed significant effectiveness in three out of five studies.
• Included studies involved individuals with spinal cord injury, various diagnoses, and able-bodied participants.
• Methodological quality was generally poor, with limited randomized controlled trials.

Conclusions:

• Exercise training programs appear effective for improving wheelchair propulsion capacity.
• Further research is necessary, particularly for non-spinal cord injury populations.
• High-quality studies are needed to confirm findings and guide interventions.