Definition of a Protocol for Geometric and Kinematic Measurements to Assess Wheelchair Propulsion

− We developed a protocol for the assessment of manual wheelchair set-up and propulsion in a common clinical motion analysis laboratory. We also designed a device to detect hand contact on handrim. In a first phase, we took anthropometric and wheelchair geometric measures. Later, subjects propelled the wheelchair and, based on the experimental data on subjects’ movements and their effect on wheelchair velocity, we identified a number of indicators for performance in wheelchair push. We show that these indicators clearly distinguish between experienced and novice users.