Effects of dynamic sitting interventions on tissue oxygenation in individuals with spinal cord disorders

Abstract

Study design: An explorative cross-sectional study.

Objectives: The objective of this study was to investigate the possibility of imposing dynamic sitting behavior on individuals with spinal cord disorders by using the Dynasit chair and to investigate its effect on the (sub-)cutaneous tissue oxygenation.

Setting: Rehabilitation Centre het Roessingh, Enschede, the Netherlands.

Subjects: Ten male subjects with a spinal cord disorder.

Methods: The Dynasit chair, an experimental simulator chair, containing mechanical concepts for postural adjustments, regulation of tuberal load and pelvic rotation, was developed to allow individuals with a spinal cord disorder to sit in a dynamic way. An experiment was carried out in which a dynamic sitting pattern was imposed. The sitting pattern consisted of series of actuated changes in posture, tuberal load and pelvic orientation. Effects of these changes on (sub-)cutaneous buttock tissue oxygenation were investigated by transcutaneous measurement of tissue oxygenation.

Results: Nonparametric statistical analyses were carried out on nine subjects that completed the study. Results showed significant positive effects (P<0.05) of actuated changes in tuberal load on the cutaneous and subcutaneous tissue oxygenation.

Conclusion: The Dynasit chair is effective in imposing dynamic sitting behavior in individuals with a spinal cord disorder and consequently might reduce the chance of tissue degradation.