Development and Testing of an Innovative User-Adjustable Support Surface for Wheelchair Seating Discomfort |
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| Authors: | Barbara Crane PhD PT ATP Douglas Hobson PhD Stephen Stadelmeier MSc |
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| Institution: | 1. Department of Physical Therapy , University of Hartford , West Hartford, Connecticut, USA bcrane@hartford.edu;3. Department of Rehabilitation Science and Technology , University of Pittsburgh , Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA;4. School of Design , Carnegie Mellon University , Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA |
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| Abstract: | ABSTRACT Beginning in 2000, a study of discomfort experienced by wheelchair users and development of technology solutions were undertaken. This research culminated with the present study of a new technology targeting sitting discomfort. Support for development of the “Butt Scooter” prototype and its testing was provided through an NIH research grant. Investigators tested a prototype device, called the “Butt Scooter,” and conducted a focus group to obtain expert clinical opinions about the potential usefulness of the prototype. Subject testing of the prototype device followed a single subject design (ABABA). Subjects self-administered the Tool for Assessing Wheelchair disComfort (TAWC) to evaluate their discomfort levels. Results from three subjects are reported. All three expert therapists participating in the focus group responded favorably to the prototype. In summary, results from subject testing were somewhat mixed with regard to discomfort management, however all subjects commented positively on the features of the device. |
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| Keywords: | comfort seating wheelchair |
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