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Updated: Jan 18, 2026
Determining and Controlling External Power Output During Regular Handrim Wheelchair Propulsion
Published on: February 5, 2020
Considering Propulsion Pattern in Therapeutic Outcomes for Children Who Use Manual Wheelchairs
Jacob R Rammer1, Joseph J Krzak, Brooke A Slavens
1Orthopaedic and Rehabilitation Engineering Center (Drs Rammer and Slavens and Ms Riedel), Marquette University Department of Biomedical Engineering and Medical College of Wisconsin Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Milwaukee, Wisconsin; Shriners Hospitals for Children (Drs Krzak, Slavens, and Harris), Chicago, Illinois; Physical Therapy Program (Dr Krzak), Midwestern University, Downers Grove, Illinois; University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee (Dr Slavens), Milwaukee, Wisconsin; and Biomedical Engineering (Dr Winters), Marquette University, Milwaukee, Wisconsin.
Pediatric manual wheelchair users experienced improved shoulder function and propulsion efficiency after intensive physical therapy. Their propulsion patterns predicted therapy response, highlighting the importance of tailored training.
Area of Science:
- Rehabilitation Medicine
- Pediatric Physical Therapy
- Biomechanics
Background:
- Children using manual wheelchairs face risks of upper body pain and injury.
- Existing research lacks detail on how propulsion patterns and therapy influence treatment outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the impact of a 7-week community-based intensive physical and occupational therapy program.
- To assess functional outcomes in pediatric manual wheelchair users.
Main Methods:
- Assessed changes in functional outcomes over a 7-week period.
- Utilized community-based intensive physical and occupational therapy.
- Analyzed joint and musculotendon kinematics, propulsion speed, and effectiveness.
Main Results:
- Observed significant improvements in shoulder joint and musculotendon kinematics.
- Demonstrated enhanced propulsion speed and effectiveness.
- Identified changes in wheelchair propulsion patterns.
Conclusions:
- Wheelchair propulsion patterns predict response to therapy.
- Weekly therapy duration and therapist focus on wheelchair specifics are also predictive.
- Stretching is a beneficial component of therapy for this population.
