Clinical validation of a novel postural support device for hospitalized sub-acute post-stroke wheelchair users

Abstract

Purpose:We present a novel wheelchair posture support device (WPSD) and its clinical validation. It was developed in order to assure correct sitting posture and to reduce caregiver time spent for repositioning of wheelchair-bound hospitalized post-acute stroke patients. Method:The device was validated with 16 subjects during a period of five days in which use of the device was compared with regular care practice. Results:The device was used for the five consecutive days in 69% of patients, while for 6% it was not suitable; 25% did not complete the five days for reasons unrelated to the device. Caregivers needed to re-position the patients that used the device for the full five days (n=11) on average 52% less times when using the device, as compared to regular practice. Furthermore, the device was rated as usable and functional by the caregivers while significantly reducing perception of trunk pain in patients during the use of it. Conclusions:The newly designed WPSD is a valuable system for the improvement in medical assistance of hospitalized wheelchair-bound post-stroke patients by reducing pain and number of re-positioning manoeuvres. The WPSD might be applicable to any group of patients who need posture control in either wheelchair or common chair with arms support. 2Clinical validation of a novel postural support device for hospitalized sub-acute post-stroke wheelchair users.

A randomized controlled trial of a modified wheelchair arm-support to reduce shoulder pain in stroke patients

“…In our study, most functional limb posture could be obtained using the modified wheelchair arm-support, including arm in external rotation, wrist in neutral position, finger half extended and thumb abduction. Veneman et al 31 designed a novel wheelchair posture support device to assure correct sitting posture for post-acute stroke patients and found it could reduce shoulder pain and the number of repositioning manoeuvres. The device was designed with trunk support and a table to support the hemiplegic upper limb, which has similar therapeutic effect as our compensator device.…”

Early multidisciplinary prevention program of post-stroke shoulder pain: A randomized clinical trial

“…24,25 In addition, novel wheelchair posture support devices to assure correct sitting posture and reduce repositioning maneuvers have proved to be beneficial for hemiplegic patients with shoulder pain. 26,27 The role of early robotic therapies, which have recently showed promising results in the management of shoulder pain, 28 will have to be investigated in further studies. In addition, some authors argued against a unique entity and suggesting the need to develop more individualized multidisciplinary management approaches have emphasized the different clinical profiles and risk factors to the development of post-stroke shoulder pain.…”

Being wheelchair‐bound and being bedridden: Two concept analyses

“…They can either keep their posture (Hirakawa et al, 2005) or are unable to maintain a proper sitting position for a prolonged time. Hence, they need assistance to reposition or medical restraints such as belts or pommel cushions (Veneman et al, 2017). Wheelchair-bound people spend a lot of time in the wheelchair, where they take their meals and relieve themselves (Urasaki et al, 2011).…”