Methodology devised for a program to improve efficiency and reduce risks for wheelchair locomotion

The purpose of this paper is to present methodology specifically designed for objective study of problems associated with physiological stresses of manual wheelchair use. Excessive metabolic and cardiopulmonary stresses for everyday tasks could hinder rehabilitative efforts and be hazardous for certain patients. Sources of stress include: the relatively small musculature used for propulsion; architectural barriers; low levels of physical fitness; and inefficient wheelchair design. We propose that in order to reduce these stresses, quantitative data related to their mechanisms need to be derived. Therefore, we are conducting studies in the following areas; 1. Quantitation of metabolic, cardiovascular and pulmonary stresses of operating manual wheelchairs over various terrains; 2. Evaluation of physical fitness of wheelchair-dependent patients; 3. Improvement of physical fitness of wheelchair-dependent patients; and 4. Evaluation of the efficiency of various wheelchair designs. This research to date has provided further understanding of problems related to wheelchair confinement and demonstrated techniques to alleviate them. In this way, wheelchair locomotion could become less stressful and thus contribute to a higher level of rehabilitation.