2018 Volume 33 Issue 1 Pages 49-53
[Purpose] To measure the load applied to wheelchairs due to spasticity, and the establishment of a methodology for revealing the load. [Subjects and Methods] The position of a strain gage for measuring the load applied to a wheelchair was determined in a structural analysis simulation, and the actual load on the head support imparted by a spastic-type cerebral palsy patient was measured. [Results] The maximum load applied to the head support of the wheelchair due to spasticity was 346 N (load - weight ratio 88.3%). In addition, it was revealed that the head support experienced both extension and flexion strains. [Conclusion] The load applied to the head support of the wheelchair was quantified using strain gages. It was revealed that 88.3% body weight is applied to the head support of the wheelchair due to spasticity. These results are potentially important data for new standards of wheelchair strength.
