Pressure mapping in seating: a frequency analysis approach.
OBJECTIVE
To discuss the methodologic challenges related to pressure mapping in seating and to present a new approach to the analysis and interpretation of results: the frequency analysis approach.


METHODS
Pressure mapping was performed on 3 prototypes of a newly developed foam and gel seat cushion.


METHODS
Data collection was done in a private laboratory.


METHODS
Eight nondisabled men.


METHODS
Not applicable.


METHODS
Average pressure, peak values, and the size of the contact area were measured continuously for 74 minutes on each cushion prototype. A supplementary frequency analysis provided information on the number of times each value occurred during the measurement period.


RESULTS
Average pressure and peak values showed only very small, nonsignificant changes over the measurement period for all variants. The frequency analysis, however, showed significant differences that enabled the manufacturer to select the prototype best suited for further development.


CONCLUSIONS
Verifying significant differences in pressure-relieving properties between products has to date been difficult. Findings from this study indicate that a frequency analysis approach may enable more adequate and precise ways to perform such studies.
Eitzen
Ingrid
I
Health and Rehabilitation, SINTEF Unimed, Pb 124 Blindern, 0373 Oslo, Norway. Ingrid.Eitzen@sintef.no
D000328:Adult; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D011312:Pressure; D003668:Pressure Ulcer / Q000517:prevention & control; D016474:Weight-Bearing; D014910:Wheelchairs