Use of power tilt systems in everyday life

Abstract

Purpose. The goal of this study was to monitor and describe the use of power tilt systems in everyday life. Additionally, tilt measurements were used to determine if participants performed regular pressure reliefs.

Methods. Wheelchair occupancy and seat position of 16 fulltime power wheelchair users were monitored regularly for 1–2 weeks. Daily wheelchair occupancy, typical position, time spent at different tilt angles, tilt frequency and pressure relieving tilt (PRT) frequency were described.

Results. Participants used their tilt systems in many different ways, including subjects who typically sat at small (0–14°) tilt angles and subjects who typically sat at medium (15–29°) tilt angles. Few subjects tilted past 45°. Almost all subjects tilted throughout the day, with the median subject performing >3 tilts per hour of wheelchair occupancy. Despite the regular use, few subjects performed regular PRTs (median = 0.13/h)

Conclusion. Differences in tilt-use illustrated the variability in function and activity among users, as well as the diverse benefits of a tilt system for different users. Further study into why subjects did not regularly achieve PRT magnitudes would be valuable to inform improved training, education and follow-up.

Keywords:

• Wheelchair
• tilt-in-space
• monitoring
• pressure relief
• seating