Wheelchair users face unique challenges that can lead to various injuries, often due to the repetitive nature of wheelchair use and environmental factors.
In this article, we list some of the most common injuries that arise from wheelchair use and some guidance on how to minimise the risk of them.
Wheelchair users often rely heavily on the shoulders for propulsion and transfers. The repetitive stress of pushing a wheelchair can lead to overuse injuries such as rotator cuff tears, impingement syndrome, and bursitis.
Prevention of Shoulder Injuries
A physiotherapist or occupational therapist can guide a wheelchair user on exercises that strengthen and stabilise the shoulders.
2. Pressure Sores
Prolonged pressure on the skin – such as the case of those using their wheelchair for long periods – can restrict blood flow and lead to pressure sores. The most commonly affected areas are the buttocks, tailbone, and heels.
If left unresolved, pressure sores can lead to painful infections of the skin and soft tissue (cellulitis) and even joint and bone infections.
Prevention of Pressure Sores:
Carpal tunnel syndrome is a hand and wrist condition caused by compression of the median nerve in the wrist. Repetitive motion and pressure on the wrist can cause this.
Symptoms include numbness, tingling, pain and weakness in the hand and fingers.
Image credit: Wikimedia Commons
Preventing Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Aside from the shoulders and wrists, other body parts such as the elbows, hands, and cervical spine can also suffer from repetitive strain or overuse.
Preventing Repetitive Strain Injuries
Wheelchair users may experience falls during transfers, navigating uneven surfaces, or when the wheelchair tips over. Falls can result in fractures, sprains, or head injuries.
Preventing injuries from falls
Training on the safe transfer in and out of a wheelchair is important for wheelchair users and caregivers alike.
Apart from the specific issues and preventive measures listed above, here are some more ways wheelchair users can mitigate the risk of injuries in general:
Assistive technology can make a big difference in the quality of life of wheelchair users, especially those with limited upper body strength. Power wheelchairs can eliminate the need for manual propulsion. There are also power assist devices available that can be attached to a manual wheelchair.
It’s always worthwhile for wheelchair users and caregivers alike to participate in education programs that provide information on injury prevention, proper wheelchair use, and health maintenance. Connect with peer support groups or organisations for individuals with disabilities to share experiences and learn from others.
Physiotherapists and occupational therapists can help wheelchair users in a variety of ways, from developing a safe exercise program specifically tailored to their needs, rehabbing injuries, as well as recommending home modifications to make wheelchair use safer.
Physiotherapists and occupational therapists are also skilled in assessing a patient’s needs and prescribing wheelchairs and seating solutions that are tailored to each individual.
If you’re struggling with injuries and other problems from wheelchair use – or have just started to require a wheelchair and wish to prevent them – our team of highly qualified physiotherapists and occupational therapists are here to help.
We can assist you in finding a wheelchair that suits your needs, and train you and your caregiver on the proper techniques for safe wheelchair use.
Our team can also help in the prevention or rehabilitation of injuries, through various therapy modalities including exercise therapy, soft tissue mobilisation, heat and cold therapy and myofascial release.
And we can bring these services right to your location, whether it’s your home, workplace, or community setting.
Get in touch with us today by filling out this form or calling us at 02 8808 4000. We’ll be happy to chat and answer your questions!