Evaluation of physical load of hand-rim wheelchair propulsion on barrier-free model courses

The aim of this study was to examine the effect of sidewalk developments on the physical load of hand-rim wheelchair propulsion using a barrier-free model course. Non-wheelchair users performed wheelchair exercise tests and R–R interval time, discomfort rating, and postural changes of seating were measured. As a result, due to excessively heavy load on certain parts of the body during active propulsion on the sidewalk, it was shown that barrier-free developments did not lead to a reduction of physical load. The results suggest the importance of a well-balanced barrier-free sidewalk design that takes into account the individual character of the wheelchair user's seating posture and physical load at the time of maneuvering. In addition, it is shown that the reduction of physical load can be considered as an effective method of evaluation.