Mobile and Remote Monitoring of Seating Pressure for Wheelchair Users With SCI

Mobile and Remote Monitoring of Seating Pressure for Wheelchair Users With SCI

This study will examine two interventions to increase weight shifts, overall trunk movement, and self-efficacy related to pressure ulcer prevention in wheelchair users with a spinal cord injury (SCI).

Participants will use a mobile seat interface pressure mapping system that gives them live, real-time, visual feedback on the distribution of pressure between them and their seat cushion. This type of feedback works as a compensatory strategy for lack of sensation and allows the individual to visually observe pressure distribution they are not able to feel. Additionally, the participants will be provided with structured pressure ulcer prevention education, grounded in the principles of social cognitive theory, regarding pressure ulcer risk and use of weight shifts.

The pressure mapping system, which will be used during training, provides virtual modeling of the desired outcome (reduced pressure) and is an important part of the education module.

The findings of this study will inform clinicians and investigators of whether use of mobile seat interface pressure mapping as a compensatory-based intervention has a positive impact on trunk movement and self-efficacy for completing weight shifts in wheelchair users who lack sensation. Another contribution of this work is an exploration of the relationship between self-efficacy and movement in wheelchair users.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Individuals with a spinal cord injury (C4 and below, traumatic or non-traumatic, with onset greater than 12 months at enrollment)
• Individuals who use a wheelchair as their primary form of mobility
• Individuals who are willing to participate and able to make 2 visits to the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, MN

Exclusion Criteria:

• Documented active pressure ulcer of any stage at initiation of study