Surface electromyography activity of trunk muscles during conventional and non-conventional wheelchair propulsion

In this experimental comparative study between a prototype lever-propelled wheelchair and conventional hand rim wheelchair, trunk muscles activity in able-bodied subjects was examined using surface electromyography (SEMG). Fifteen healthy males and non-wheelchair users were recruited in Tripoli, Lebanon. Participants successfully performed two propulsion trials on both types of wheelchair: conventional (hand rim; CHr) and non-conventional (lever-propelled prototype; NCLP) at a preselected speed of 0.9 m/s. Variables measured included muscle activity, frequencies, fatigability and the intensity of muscle contractions on two types of propulsion. Results showed that both abdominal and back muscle groups revealed significantly lower activation during NC-LP compared to the C-Hr propulsion. Results showed also muscle activation profile of the trunk musculature at two type of wheelchair propulsion. Our results suggested a necessity of a future study design methodology including wheelchair users with spinal cord injury.