What is the mechanism of action of this treatment?

The most common treatments for Spinal Cord Injury (SCI) often include physical therapy, occupational therapy, and specialized training programs like Skills on Wheels. These interventions work by enhancing motor skills, improving wheelchair maneuverability, and building confidence in independent mobility. They also focus on psychosocial aspects, helping patients develop better social participation and adaptive behaviors. This holistic approach is crucial for SCI patients as it not only improves their physical capabilities but also boosts their mental health and social integration, leading to a higher quality of life and greater independence.

What side effects are associated with this type of intervention?

Common treatments for Spinal Cord Injury (SCI) that focus on improving wheelchair use and related skills, such as physical therapy, occupational therapy, and mobility training programs, generally have minimal side effects. However, some individuals may experience temporary muscle soreness, fatigue, or discomfort as they adapt to new physical activities and exercises. Additionally, there may be psychological challenges such as frustration or anxiety during the learning process. Overall, these treatments are designed to enhance independence and quality of life, with side effects being relatively minor and manageable.

What prior FDA approvals exist?

There are no specific FDA-approved drugs that directly align with the goals of the Skills on Wheels program for Spinal Cord Injury (SCI). However, various rehabilitative and integrative therapies, including physical therapy, occupational therapy, and assistive technology training, are commonly used to improve mobility, independence, and quality of life for individuals with SCI. These therapies focus on enhancing wheelchair skills, building confidence, and improving psychosocial and adaptive behaviors, similar to the objectives of the Skills on Wheels program.

What other types of research exist?

Promising, novel alternatives to the Skills on Wheels program for SCI patients in 2024 include: 1) Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) based rehabilitation programs that provide immersive and interactive environments for practicing wheelchair skills. 2) Robotics-assisted training, such as exoskeletons and robotic wheelchairs, which can enhance mobility training and confidence. 3) Tele-rehabilitation platforms that offer remote, personalized training and support, increasing accessibility and convenience. 4) Adaptive sports programs that focus on building physical skills, social participation, and psychosocial well-being through engaging in sports activities. 5) Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) integrated with physical training to address both mental and physical aspects of rehabilitation.

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Wheelchair Skills Training for Mobility Impairments

N/A

Recruiting

Research Sponsored by Grand Valley State University

Eligibility Criteria Checklist

Specific guidelines that determine who can or cannot participate in a clinical trial

Must have

Have a condition resulting in difficulties walking

Use a manual wheelchair greater than or equal to 25% of the time

Timeline

Screening 3 weeks

Treatment Varies

Follow Up baseline,pre-intervention and immediately after the conclusion of the 6 week intervention

Awards & highlights

No Placebo-Only Group

Summary

This trial tests a training program called Skills on Wheels, which helps children with physical disabilities learn to use manual wheelchairs on their own. The goal is to make them more confident and safe in using their wheelchairs, and to improve their social skills and participation in activities.

Who is the study for?

This trial is for children aged 5-17 with physical disabilities like spinal cord injury, cerebral palsy, or genetic disorders who use a manual wheelchair at least 25% of the time. They must be able to follow simple instructions and have an English-speaking parent/caregiver. Participants need to live in Michigan and have a safe wheelchair.

What is being tested?

The 'Skills on Wheels' program aims to improve manual wheelchair skills and confidence among children with physical disabilities. It will also assess the impact on psychosocial skills, social participation, and adaptive behavior as part of pilot data for future research.

What are the potential side effects?

There are no specific side effects mentioned for this training intervention; however, safety concerns are addressed by ensuring participants can safely engage in manual wheelchair training.

Eligibility Criteria

Inclusion Criteria

You may be eligible if you check “Yes” for the criteria below

Select...

I have trouble walking due to my condition.

Select...

I use a manual wheelchair for at least a quarter of my day.

Select...

I am between 5 and 17 years old and will remain under 18 for the study.

Timeline

Screening ~ 3 weeks3 visits

Treatment ~ Varies

Follow Up ~ baseline,pre-intervention and immediately after the conclusion of the 6 week intervention

Screening ~ 3 weeks

Treatment ~ Varies

Follow Up ~baseline,pre-intervention and immediately after the conclusion of the 6 week intervention

This trial's timeline: 3 weeks for screening, Varies for treatment, and baseline,pre-intervention and immediately after the conclusion of the 6 week intervention for reporting.

Treatment Details

Study Objectives

Study objectives can provide a clearer picture of what you can expect from a treatment.

Primary study objectives

Change in manual wheelchair skill confidence

Change in manual wheelchair skill performance

Change in manual wheelchair skills performance

Secondary study objectives

Change in adaptive skills

Change in behavior

Changes in perceptions regarding the manual wheelchair skills intervention

Awards & Highlights

No Placebo-Only Group

All patients enrolled in this study will receive some form of active treatment.

Trial Design

1Treatment groups

Experimental Treatment

Group I: Manual wheelchair skills trainingExperimental Treatment1 Intervention

0 / 3Eligibility criteria met

Research Highlights

Information in this section is not a recommendation. We encourage patients to speak with their healthcare team when evaluating any treatment decision.

Mechanism Of Action

Side Effect Profile

Prior Approvals

Other Research

The most common treatments for Spinal Cord Injury (SCI) often include physical therapy, occupational therapy, and specialized training programs like Skills on Wheels. These interventions work by enhancing motor skills, improving wheelchair maneuverability, and building confidence in independent mobility. They also focus on psychosocial aspects, helping patients develop better social participation and adaptive behaviors. This holistic approach is crucial for SCI patients as it not only improves their physical capabilities but also boosts their mental health and social integration, leading to a higher quality of life and greater independence.

Re-inventing yourself after spinal cord injury: a site-specific randomized clinical trial.