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Pressure Mapping a Hit for Shepherd's Cushion Degradation Study (This study is ongoing)

As part of its Spinal Cord Injury Model Systems’ project the Shepherd Center began a Cushion Degradation Study in April. The purpose of this study is to determine the useful life of wheelchair cushions in real world environments. The results of this project will be used to develop a clinical measure that can be easily integrated into a busy clinic setting to assess the point when seat cushion replacement is needed. Results from the study will help determine when a wheelchair seat cushion needs to be replaced, generate a useful assessment tool for clinicians and wheelchair users, and help provide evidence to determine if current insurance reimbursement policies for cushion replacement are appropriate.

David Rivard showing a study participant a computerized image of her seat pressure distribution.

This study is open to anyone who uses a pressure-relieving wheelchair cushion. Participation involves one visit of approximately 1.5 hours and includes answering questions about the individual and their cushion. As part of the study, individuals will be assessed using pressure mapping. This tool gives participants the opportunity to view first hand their sitting pressures and demonstrates how weight shifts and equipment adjustments are effective in decreasing high pressures. The computer screen output displays a real-time color picture of a person’s seated pressure distribution and peak pressures, helping to identify at-risk areas. After the researcher records several time-related mappings, participants can "experiment" while sitting on the mat to see which movements will decrease pressures.

In preliminary testing, one person experiencing coccygeal pain learned that a slight change in his posture affected the dispersion of his sitting pressures and greatly decreased his tailbone discomfort. He commented that being able to see and understand how he could manage his own sitting pressures was worth his participation in the study.

Recruitment for the first phase of this project will continue through May of 2008. Participants are invited to return for re-testing so that researchers can assess cushion aging properties over time; however, this is not required.

To be a part of this exciting and important study contact David Rivard.

Contact

David Rivard, Shepherd Center
Phone: 404-350-7655
Email: david_rivard@shepherd.org