Postural support devices in reducing shear force applied to buttocks in individuals using reclining wheelchair

Abstract

  This study aimed to verify whether the use of pelvic and thigh belts, two postural support devices, in individuals using reclining wheelchairs can address the issue of shear force applied to buttocks. Sixteen healthy adults (20.9 ± 1.5 years old) were enrolled, and a shear force measuring device (Vicair B.V., AX Wormer, The Netherlands) was used to measure the shear force of the buttocks. There were two experimental conditions: pelvic belt and thigh belt conditions. Shear force measurements were performed during the return to an upright position (RUP) from a starting position in which the back support was reclined. The initial upright position (IUP) was 10 degrees vertical from the original position. As a result, the shear force applied to buttocks in the IUP showed a significantly lower value in the thigh belt condition when compared to the pelvic belt condition; however, no significant difference was observed between the two conditions in the RUP.