Clinical validation of a novel postural support device for hospitalized sub-acute post-stroke wheelchair users

Abstract

Purpose: We present a novel wheelchair posture support device (WPSD) and its clinical validation. The device was developed in order to assure correct sitting posture and to reduce the time spent by caregivers for re-positioning of hospitalized, wheelchair-bound, post-acute stroke patients. Method: The device was validated with 16 subjects during a period of 5 days in which use of the device was compared with regular care practice. Results: The device was used for the five consecutive days in 69% of patients, while for 6% it was not suitable; 25% did not complete the 5 days for reasons unrelated to the device. Caregivers needed to re-position the patients that used the device for the full 5 days (n = 11) on an average 52% less often when using the device, as compared to regular practice. Furthermore, the device was rated as usable and functional by the caregivers while significantly reducing perception of trunk and shoulder pain in patients during its use. Conclusions: The newly designed WPSD is a valuable system for the improvement of medical assistance to wheelchair-bound post-stroke patients by reducing pain and number of re-positioning manoeuvres. The WPSD might be applicable to any group of patients who need posture control in either wheelchair or common chair with arms support.IMPLICATIONS FOR REHABILITATIONAdvanced supports and cushions that can be shaped to individual needs, may help assure correct sitting posture in wheelchair-bound post-acute stroke patients.Advanced supports and cushions that can be shaped to individual needs, may reduce the number of times a caregiver has to re-position a hospitalized wheelchair-bound post-acute stroke patient on overall average by 52%.Advanced personalized supports and cushions may improve sitting comfort and reduce pain complaints for post-acute hospitalized stroke patients using a wheelchair.