ABSTRACT

Objectives: The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of wheelchair propulsion speed changes on the shoulder impingement syndrome.Method: EMG activity of 5 muscles (biceps brachii, pectoralis major, deltoid anterior, triceps brachii, and trapezius) were recorded with surface electrodes in 24 males during propulsion ofthree different speed levels on a motor-driven wheelchair treadmill. EMG signal was analysedusing root mean square (RMS) values. In order to assure the statistical significance of the results, the one-way ANOVA and a Post Hoc Multiple Comparison were applied at the 0.05 level of significance.Results: The results of this study were as follows: Biceps brachii, and pectoralis RMS value variations of wheelchair propulsion speed between 45m/min and 60m/min, and between 60m/minand 75m/min were not statistically different (p>0.05). Triceps brachii, deltoid anterior and trapezius RMS value variations of wheelchair propulsion speed between 45m/min and 75m/min were statistically different (p<0.05).Conclusions: The risk of impingement syndrome has increased from deltoid muscle contraction growth and trapezoid, triceps brachial muscle endurance decrease when wheelchair propulsion speed rises. To prevent from impingement syndrome wheelchair users should strengthen and endure shoulder muscles. Besides we need education on propulsion posture and suitable position for wheelchair users.