Article

This pilot study assesses the suitability of three electronic
instruments for the potential to objectively and consistently measure the
effectiveness of adaptive seating for children with neuromotor disorders such as
cerebral palsy and muscular dystrophy. METHOD:
A MiniMicroactigraph, an XSens
accelerometer and an Xsensor pressure mapping system were assessed for their
ability to measure change in five participants' stability, movement and posture
when seating in a flat CAPS II chair and a contoured CAPS II chair. RESULTS:
The accelerometer and pressure mapping system showed a difference in amount of
movement and body/seat interface between two contrasting seated surfaces on all
children, demonstrating potential for use in future research. The results of the
actigraph were inconclusive, but did highlight the importance of instrument
placement for future studies that utilise this technology. CONCLUSION: The three
instruments have potential suitability for use in future, more comprehensive
studies of adaptive seating. It is recommended that future studies explore the
additional features of these instruments for their potential to provide objective
data regarding the effects of adaptive seating on children's postural alignment
and support, pressure management, stability, functional ability and comfort.
CI - (c) 2011 Informa UK, Ltd.

Langue : ANGLAIS