Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jan 19, 2026
Determining and Controlling External Power Output During Regular Handrim Wheelchair Propulsion
Published on: February 5, 2020
Reliability and normative values of the Wheelchair Propulsion Test: A preliminary investigation
A W Andrews1, S Vallabhajosula1, C Ramsey1
1Department of Physical Therapy Education, Elon University, Elon, NC, USA.
Background:
Normative data for the equivalent of gait speed via the Wheelchair Propulsion Test (WPT) do not exist for wheelchair users.
Objective:
The purposes of the current study were to: 1) determine the reliability of the WPT, 2) propose and compare normative values for the WPT for young adult males and females utilizing three different propulsion techniques, and 3) compare how different wheelchair types affect performance on the WPT.
Methods:
50 young adults (25 of each sex) performed the WPT using three different propulsion techniques in three different types of wheelchairs. Participants were asked to propel a wheelchair over 10 m at a comfortable speed. Time and number of pushes were recorded for three trials for each propulsion technique in each type of wheelchair.
Results:
All of the ICC(2,2) values were >0.83 for speed and number of pushes. Normative values for speed, number of pushes, push frequency and effectiveness categorized by propulsion technique, sex and wheelchair type were developed.
Conclusions:
Preliminary normative values have been established for young adults performing the WPT. This study highlights the need to maintain consistency of the wheelchair type and propulsion technique between trials in order for the WPT to be reliable.
Related Concept Videos
08:55Determining and Controlling External Power Output During Regular Handrim Wheelchair Propulsion
10:51Physical Exam Considerations for People who use Wheelchairs
In addition to the regular checks of a physical exam, examinations for patients who use wheelchairs should be adapted to address their specific needs. This ensures that the patient's mobility, injury risk, and quality of life are not threatened by extended periods of sitting, potentially without proper weight shifts. Such examination needs healthcare providers that understand these...
14:37Accessibility to Clinical Care for People who use Wheelchairs
In the United States, 25% of the general population suffers from one or another type of disability. Ambulatory disabilities, or mobility impairments, represent the most common subcategory, comprising 14% of the country's populace. Different mobility-assistive devices, ranging from canes to scooters, enable increased independence and improved quality of life for those suffering from...
10:50Propulsion and Thrust
Aircraft, rockets, and ships produce propulsion by accelerating surrounding fluid or high temperature combustion products to high velocity. Because of the principle of conservation of momentum, the increased fluid velocity results in an effective thrust force on the vehicle. The thrust capabilities of propulsion systems are often measured with static thrust...
01:29Reliability and Validity
01:24Biodiversity and Human Values