Skin problems among the wheelchair users: a prospective cross-sectional study

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Rehabilitation Medicine
• Public Health

Background:

• The skin is the body's largest organ, vulnerable to environmental factors.
• Wheelchair users face unique biomechanical challenges, increasing their risk of skin issues.
• Dermatological literature underrepresents skin conditions in wheelchair users.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the frequency of various skin problems in wheelchair users.
• To identify preventive measures utilized by wheelchair users for skin conditions.

Main Methods:

• A prospective, cross-sectional study was conducted in Saudi Arabia during May-June 2020.
• An online survey using Google Forms was distributed to adult wheelchair users.
• Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 22.

Main Results:

• 85% of wheelchair users reported experiencing skin problems.
• Pressure ulcers (PUs) were the most common condition (54%), followed by traumatic wounds and fungal infections.
• The primary preventive measure reported was the use of cushions to prevent PUs.

Conclusions:

• A high prevalence of skin complaints, particularly pressure ulcers, exists among wheelchair users.
• Raising awareness about risk factors and prevention is vital to mitigate negative impacts on quality of life.
• Future research should explore wheelchair and cushion designs to prevent pressure ulcers.