https://pittplusme.org/study/2269
In-wheel Suspension Study for Manual Wheelchair Users
STUDY BASICS
Do you have a spinal cord injury which occurred at least one year ago and use a manual wheelchair full time (30+ hours per week)? You may be able to participate in a study to examine how in-wheel suspension in manual wheelchairs changes vibrational exposure and how this impacts pain and fatigue. This study involves 2 in-person visits and 12-weeks of in-wheel suspension use. Compensation provided.
STUDY PURPOSE
The purpose of this study is to examine how in-wheel suspension in manual wheelchairs changes vibrational exposure and how this impacts pain and fatigue.
COULD THIS STUDY BE RIGHT FOR YOU?
- You have a spinal cord injury which occurred at least one year ago
- You use a manual wheelchair full time (more than 30 hours per week)
- You use a manual wheelchair with 24” or 25” quick-release wheels
- Your Wheelchair does not have in-frame suspension elements
- You weigh under 265 pounds (weight limit of suspension wheels)
- You have moderate chronic neck and/or back pain
WHAT PARTICIPANTS CAN EXPECT
- 2 visits
- 12-weeks of at-home in-wheel suspension use
IRB: STUDY20020199
- Effects of in-wheel suspension in reducing vibration, neck and back pain
MEET THE RESEARCHER
Alicia Koontz
Dr. Alicia Koontz is a Professor at the University of Pittsburgh and VA Research Career Scientist and Senior Associate Director of Research at the VA Pittsburgh HealthCare System Human Engineering Research Laboratories. She is an Elected Fellow to the American Institute for Medical and Biological Engineering (AIMBE) and a RESNA certified Assistive Technology Professional and Rehabilitation Engineering Technologist. Dr. Koontz has over 20 years of experience in research with grant funding from multiple federal agencies, corporate sponsors and foundations. She has published over 100 peer-reviewed materials in top-tier rehabilitation, engineering and biomechanics journals. Her research interests are in rehabilitation biomechanics, injury prevention, adaptive fitness and assistive technology.