Feasibility of three electronic instruments in studying the benefits of adaptive seating

Abstract

Purpose: This pilot study assesses the suitability of three electronic instruments for the potential to objectively and consistently measure the effectiveness of adaptive seating for children with neuromotor disorders such as cerebral palsy and muscular dystrophy.

Method: A MiniMicroactigraph, an XSens accelerometer and an Xsensor pressure mapping system were assessed for their ability to measure change in five participants' stability, movement and posture when seating in a flat CAPS II chair and a contoured CAPS II chair.

Results: The accelerometer and pressure mapping system showed a difference in amount of movement and body/seat interface between two contrasting seated surfaces on all children, demonstrating potential for use in future research. The results of the actigraph were inconclusive, but did highlight the importance of instrument placement for future studies that utilise this technology.

Conclusion: The three instruments have potential suitability for use in future, more comprehensive studies of adaptive seating. It is recommended that future studies explore the additional features of these instruments for their potential to provide objective data regarding the effects of adaptive seating on children's postural alignment and support, pressure management, stability, functional ability and comfort.