Article

This pilot study measured activities of daily living (ADLs) in users
propelling both a standard dual handrim Action 3 wheelchair and a standard Action
3 wheelchair with a Neater Uni-Wheelchair (NUW) kit attachment. The kit consists
of a steerable front castor and a single pushrim propelling both rear wheels via
a differential. HYPOTHESIS: There would be a difference in the efficiency of ADL
skill performance, speed and heart rate. METHODS:
Twenty non-disabled
participants simulating hemiplegia were used in a cross over, repeated measures
trial. Assessment of Motor and Process Skills (AMPS) of users undertaking making
a bed and laying a table 'Swedish style', tasks, were measured. Heart rate at
rest and post-task and time taken to complete each task were recorded. RESULTS:
Heart rate when laying the table was lower in the NUW (p < 0.005) and task
completion time was quicker (p < 0.0001). There was no difference in motor and
process ability skills. CONCLUSION: ADL tasks in the NUW were completed more
efficiently with no loss in quality of motor and process skills performance. This
suggests that the NUW is a viable alternative to current one arm drive provision.

Langue : ANGLAIS