Evidenced Based Education Interventions to Preserve Upper Limb Function Among Full Time Manual Wheelchair Users

Abstract

Full time manual wheelchair users are at high risk for developing upper limb injuries and pain due to their reliance on the upper limbs to perform a wide variety of functional activities of daily living. Critical to survival and living well with a disability, even small decrements in functional mobility can lead to depression, social isolation and reduced quality of life. Treatment strategies to manage pain and injury are often not successful therefore engagement in preventative measures is critical to prevent the disruption of normal activities and performance of necessary social roles. This narrative review highlights key evidenced based training interventions andeducational protocols focused on preventing and managing upper limb pain and injury among full time manual wheelchair users.