Comparison of activities of daily living in two different one arm drive wheelchairs: a controlled trial.

Aims: This pilot study measured activities of daily living (ADLs) in users propelling both a standard dual handrim Action 3 wheelchair and a standard Action 3 wheelchair with a Neater Uni-Wheelchair (NUW) kit attachment. The kit consists of a steerable front castor and a single pushrim propelling both rear wheels via a differential.

Hypothesis: There would be a difference in the efficiency of ADL skill performance, speed and heart rate.

Methods: Twenty non-disabled participants simulating hemiplegia were used in a cross over, repeated measures trial. Assessment of Motor and Process Skills (AMPS) of users undertaking making a bed and laying a table 'Swedish style', tasks, were measured. Heart rate at rest and post-task and time taken to complete each task were recorded.

Results: Heart rate when laying the table was lower in the NUW (p < 0.005) and task completion time was quicker (p < 0.0001). There was no difference in motor and process ability skills.

Conclusion: ADL tasks in the NUW were completed more efficiently with no loss in quality of motor and process skills performance. This suggests that the NUW is a viable alternative to current one arm drive provision.