Center-of-pressure displacement during postural changes in relation to pressure ulcers in spinal cord-injured patients.
OBJECTIVE
To evaluate the center-of-pressure displacement in spinal cord-injured patients, to investigate dynamic sitting stability and its relationship with pressure ulcers.


METHODS
Sixteen spinal cord-injured patients and 18 healthy volunteers were included in the study. For the assessment of dynamic sitting stability, center-of-pressure displacement during maximum unsupported forward, backward, and right- and left-sided trunk leaning were measured with a seat sensor system, which was placed between the subject's buttocks and chair.


RESULTS
Center-of-pressure displacements in all directions in spinal-injured patients were smaller than healthy volunteers (P < 0.05). Center-of-pressure displacements for high- and low-thoracic spinal cord-injured patients were not significantly different. History of previous pressure ulcer was not different between high- and low-thoracic spinal cord-injured patients (chi = 0.90, P = 0.62). Mean center-of-pressure displacement during forward and backward leaning were smaller in patients with pressure ulcer history (P = 0.04 and 0.03, respectively).


CONCLUSIONS
The results of this study suggest that impaired dynamic sitting stability is associated with pressure ulcer development.
Karataş
Gülçin Kaymak
GK
Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Gazi University Faculty of Medicine, Ankara, Turkey.
Tosun
Aliye Kapukran
AK
Kanatli
Ulunay
U
D000328:Adult; D001696:Biomechanical Phenomena; D002081:Buttocks; D016022:Case-Control Studies; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D004856:Postural Balance; D011187:Posture; D011312:Pressure; D003668:Pressure Ulcer / Q000209:etiology / Q000517:prevention & control*; D013119:Spinal Cord Injuries / Q000150:complications* / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D014910:Wheelchairs