Ergonomics in rehabilitation: a comparison of two methods of moving an empty manual wheelchair short distances.

Abstract

To test the hypothesis that most health care workers use the conventional method to move an empty wheelchair short distances (bending to release and apply the wheel locks), but that the "wheelbarrow method" (in which the push handles are used to lift the locked rear wheels off the floor) can be easily taught, requires less bending of the trunk, is faster, and is perceived by health care workers as easier, more efficient, and more comfortable for the back than the conventional method. Within-subject controlled study. Kinesiology laboratory. Twenty-three health care workers. Using both methods, subjects moved a wheelchair from the side to the foot of a simulated bed, and back. Each move was timed and videotaped. SUBJECTS rated each method using a 10-cm visual analog scale (VAS). The conventional method was ordinarily used by 74% of subjects, but subjects easily learned the wheelbarrow method. While using the conventional method, subjects bent an average+/-SD of 5.9+/-1.5 times, whereas there was no bending in the wheelbarrow method. SUBJECTS required an average of 48% less time to perform the task when using the wheelbarrow method (p < .0001) and rated it (with the VAS) as 20.7%+/-36.0% easier (p < .05), 53.2%+/-25.9% more efficient (p < .0001), and 20.0%+/-35.9% (p < .05) more comfortable for the back. One year later, 95% of 19 subjects who could be reached for follow-up could correctly describe the wheelbarrow method and 74% regularly used it. The wheelbarrow method is a superior method of moving an empty wheelchair short distances. Health care workers should be instructed in its use.