Effects of Tilt-in-Space Seating for Non-Ambulant Individuals
Author Information
Author(s): Michael SM, Porter D, Pountney TE
Primary Institution: Leeds University Hospitals NHS Trust
Hypothesis
What are the effects of tilt-in-space seating on outcomes for people with neurological or neuromuscular impairment who cannot walk?
Conclusion
Posterior tilt can reduce pressures at the interface under the pelvis for individuals with neurological impairments.
Supporting Evidence
- Seventeen studies showed that posterior tilt reduces pressure under the pelvis.
- Most studies focused on populations with neurological impairments.
- Children with cerebral palsy were a significant part of the study population.
Takeaway
Tilting a wheelchair seat backward can help reduce pressure on the bottom, which is important for comfort and preventing sores.
Methodology
A systematic review of interventional and observational studies on the effects of seat tilt for non-ambulant individuals with neurological or neuromuscular conditions.
Potential Biases
Potential biases due to non-randomized designs and lack of blinding.
Limitations
The studies included varied in quality and methodology, and many had small sample sizes.
Participant Demographics
Participants included children with cerebral palsy and adults with spinal cord injuries.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.05
Confidence Interval
95% CI 4.19–43.80
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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