Kinematics of Lateral Transfers: A Pilot Study

Abstract

People with spinal cord injuries (SCI) must transfer many times daily. Despite the importance of proper transfers, researchers have not completely described the kinematics of lateral transfers. In this study, 19 male adults with SCI who transfer independently or with minimal assistance were recruited to perform three lateral transfers to and from a therapy mat. On average, subjects elevated their sacroiliac joints (buttocks) 11 inches above the therapy mat and lowered the tempromandibular joint (head) to 21 inches above the mat. Subjects used a variety of strategies to complete the transfer that differed by their timing, the number of lifts performed, and their body positioning during transfers. Transfers from the wheelchair to the mat were more consistent within subjects.