Article

This study aimed to compare four methods of measuring or estimating
height among wheelchair users, to determine whether these methods result in
significantly different estimates, and to determine which method is most
accurate. Height data were obtained for 141 wheelchair users. Height
estimates included asking for self-report and measuring recumbent length, knee
height, and armspan. All analyses were conducted separately for men and women.
A two-group confirmatory factor analysis assessed which measure provided the best
estimate of height in this population. It also tested the measurement invariance
of the four height estimates between men and women and whether there were
significant differences across these estimates within each sex. RESULTS: :
Confirmatory factor analysis findings indicated that the four measures yielded
significantly different height estimates and body mass index values for both men
and women. For both sexes, armspan resulted in the longest estimate, and measured
recumbent length resulted in the shortest, with the reverse pattern for body mass
index values. The common variance estimates were outstanding for recumbent length
(92%) and knee height (>83%) and were very good for self-report (>75%), whereas
the common variance for armspan was poor (<42%). CONCLUSIONS: : The measurement
method used to estimate height yields significantly different values for both
height and body mass index among wheelchair users who cannot stand to be measured
using a stadiometer. Recumbent length yields the most accurate height estimate
for wheelchair users. However, when logistical and practical considerations pose
difficulties for obtaining this measure, height estimates based on knee height
and self-report may provide reasonable alternatives.

Langue : ANGLAIS