Analysis of the influence of an articulated seat position for wheelchair on the pressure distribution in the gluteal region

Abstract

Introduction: The present study proposes a new scientific project for the seat of a wheelchair, suggesting that, through the properties of a three plan mobile seat, the pelvis of individuals with neuromotor dysfunctions may position themselves adequately, allowing a chain effect, with innumerable benefits to the users, such as prevention of deformities, of muscle shortening, of pressure ulcers and improved functionality. In spite of innumerable wheelchair models available in market, none presents the ample properties resembling the articulated seat, allowing the pelvic alignment that is crucial for the adoption of an adequate posture. Methods:The articulated seat was set over a ball and socket articulation made of two components, one convex that is fixed in the chair's structure and the other concave, attached to a mobile platform. The property of the articulated seat, to change the pressure distribution in the gluteal region, was tested on 34 typical individuals, without neurological injury, through a measurement system composed by 27 sensors. Results: The significance of the statistic model proposed determined that the articulated seat was capable of altering the pressure distribution in the gluteal region in several positions on the frontal and sagittal planes, in healthy subjects. Conclusion: Despite the fact that this equipment is capable of redistributing the pressure in a seating position, future research to examine other parameters such as time of use, the use in subjects with neurological dysfunction, the angle of pelvic inclination, the criterions of indication and non-indication, inter alia, must be conducted to appropriately qualify this device.

Desenvolvimento de um sistema para avaliação de desempenho de usuários de cadeira de rodas motorizada

“…Dentre os benefícios que a CRM aliada ao treinamento adequado pode proporcionar ao usuário estão: 1) A redução de uma série de problemas comuns, como o posicionamento incorreto sobre o assento, que pode ser prejudicial a respiração, digestão e permite um menor controle da cabeça e tronco; 2) Evitar a ocorrência de pressões em pontos errados do corpo, o que pode levar a úlceras por pressão; 3) Maior confiança, permitindo que medos sejam superados e o usuário frequente uma maior variedade de locais, visto que as restrições devido ao medo de trafegar por subidas, descidas e rampas são minimizados (De Moraes et al, 2016;Lana, Silva, Barbosa, 2014).…”