Biomechanical Analysis of Class II Cerebral Palsied Wheelchair Athletes

Abstract

This study quantitatively analyzed the backward propulsion technique used by elite Class II CP wheelchair athletes. Six subjects, 3 males and 3 females, were selected from the 1984 International Games for the Disabled. The subjects were filmed in a staged setting during a sprint start for the first three complete cycles. A digitizer interfaced to an Apple II+ computer was employed to digitize the film data. A computer program served to reduce the data into linear and angular kinematic components. For the purposes of analysis, the foot propulsive movement cycles or thrust cycles were divided into the two movement phases of push and recovery. The results of the study indicated that the initial three movement cycles appeared to be characterized by longer push than recovery time, and wheelchair velocity appeared to be associated with recovery phase displacement.

Adapted Physical Activity Research: Issues and Recommendations

“…For example, specialists in exercise physiology are beginning to work with professionals in adapted physical activity in order to examine the physiological responses and training needs of such diverse special populations as persons with mental retardation (Fernhall & Tymeson, 1988) and spinal cord injuries (Lasko-McCarthey & Davis, 1991a, 1991b. Collaborative research efforts between professionals in adapted physical activity and biomechanics are beginning to help athletes with disabilities determine the most efficient wheelchair racing techniques (Davis, Gehlsen, & Wilkerson, 1990). Such efforts among professionals will not only help to solve unanswered research questions and enhance testing, teaching, and training techniques but also have the potential to increase grant funding opportunities for conducting research.…”