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Related Concept Videos

Vertebral Column: Regions and Curvature01:16

Vertebral Column: Regions and Curvature

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The vertebral column or spine is a flexible column that supports the head, neck, and body and  allows for their movements. It also protects the spinal cord.
Regions of the Vertebral Column
In an adult, the spine is subdivided into five regions: the cervical, the thoracic, the lumbar, the sacral, and the coccygeal region. The spine initially develops as a series of 33 vertebrae; after 20 years of age, the nine bones in the sacral region, five sacral, and four coccygeal bones fuse to form...
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Biomechanical Changes Related to Low Back Pain: An Innovative Tool for Movement Pattern Assessment and Treatment Evaluation in Rehabilitation
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Wheelchair backs that support the spinal curves: Assessing postural and functional changes.

Jessica Presperin Pedersen1, Cynthia Smith2, Margaret Dahlin2

  • 1Center for Rehabilitation Outcomes Research, Shirley Ryan AbilityLab, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois, USA.

The Journal of Spinal Cord Medicine
|May 15, 2020
PubMed
Summary

A new wheelchair back supporting natural spinal curves improved posture and function for individuals with spinal cord injury (SCI). This design enhances seated posture, reach, and wheelchair propulsion skills.

Keywords:
Functional outcomes manual wheelchairManual wheelchairWheelchair back supports

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Area of Science:

  • Rehabilitation Engineering
  • Biomechanics
  • Spinal Cord Injury Research

Background:

  • Wheelchair backrests significantly impact posture and function in individuals with spinal cord injury (SCI).
  • Traditional upholstered backs may promote poor spinal alignment, including posterior pelvic tilt and kyphosis.
  • Optimizing wheelchair seating is crucial for mobility, comfort, and overall health in SCI populations.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To compare the effects of a wheelchair back supporting natural spinal curves against a standard upholstered back.
  • To evaluate the impact on seated posture, functional mobility, pain, and user satisfaction in adults with SCI.
  • To determine if spinal curve support enhances wheelchair use and user outcomes.

Main Methods:

  • A randomized, cross-over design was employed with 50 adults with motor complete SCI (C6-T4).
  • Participants used both a solid back (supporting natural curves) and an upholstered back in a randomized order.
  • Outcomes included seated postural measurements (pelvic angle, spinal kyphosis), functional tests (reach, propulsion), pain ratings, and satisfaction surveys.

Main Results:

  • The solid back significantly improved seated postural measurements compared to the upholstered back.
  • Participants using the solid back showed trends towards improved functional outcomes, including vertical forward reach and propulsion.
  • User satisfaction regarding comfort and stability was higher with the solid back design.

Conclusions:

  • A wheelchair back designed to support natural seated spinal curves can enhance upright posture and functional capabilities.
  • This design shows promise for improving functional reach and wheelchair propulsion efficiency in individuals with SCI.
  • Further research is needed to confirm statistical significance and explore optimal backrest features like height and lateral support.