Article

Because wheelchair users are unable to use standard fitness equipment
such as treadmills and bikes, we developed an upper body rowing ergometer (UBRE)
that can be retrofitted onto a standard stationary cycle and used to perform a
rowing exercise. We validated a graded exercise testing protocol utilizing the
UBRE and completed a 12-week pilot intervention to compare the training effects
of the UBRE to a standard arm cycle ergometer (ACE) in manual wheelchair users.
METHODS: Repeat graded exercise tests were compared on the two pieces of
equipment. Twenty-seven manual wheelchair users participated in the intervention.
Outcomes included pre- versus post-test change in shoulder pain, strength and
cardiorespiratory fitness measures. RESULTS: Testing results obtained with the
UBRE were comparable to those on the ACE. In the exercise intervention, most
outcome measures did not change significantly, but individuals assigned to the
UBRE were able to increase their peak exercise test power by 31 W and duration by
3.6 min. CONCLUSION: There is biomechanical reason to believe that rowing
exercises may improve shoulder muscle balance in this population, which could
reduce the risk of impingement. This may be of benefit to manual wheelchair
users, who are at high risk for shoulder injury. Implications for Rehabilitation
Regular exercise improves cardiorespiratory fitness and did not exacerbate
shoulder pain in this group of manual wheelchair users. Exercises that target
posterior shoulder muscle groups, such as rowing, may improve muscle balance and
reduce the risk of shoulder impingement. Participation in exercise is hindered in
this population by a high rate of secondary health conditions and difficulty
accessing facilities and equipment.

Langue : ANGLAIS