SMS Mobility and Propulsion 1 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: Which propulsion pattern is most biomechanically efficient and least injurious for manual wheelchair users?
- Semicircular pattern with long smooth strokes (Correct answer)
- Short choppy strokes with frequent hand repositioning
- Rear push pattern starting behind the axle
- Two-finger push technique
Correct answer: Semicircular pattern with long smooth strokes
A long, smooth semicircular propulsion pattern with low push frequency reduces repetitive strain and maximizes efficiency for manual wheelchair users.
Question 2: Rear axle position on a manual wheelchair affects all of the following EXCEPT:
- Propulsion efficiency
- Wheelie stability
- Rolling resistance
- Seating depth measurement (Correct answer)
Correct answer: Seating depth measurement
Rear axle position affects propulsion efficiency, stability, and rolling resistance, but seating depth is determined by the seat dimensions, not axle position.
Question 3: A more posterior (rearward) rear axle position on a manual wheelchair:
- Increases the effort needed to propel
- Reduces propulsion efficiency but improves rearward stability
- Improves propulsion efficiency by moving the wheel closer to the hand but decreases anti-tip stability (Correct answer)
- Has no effect on propulsion effort
Correct answer: Improves propulsion efficiency by moving the wheel closer to the hand but decreases anti-tip stability
A rearward axle position improves propulsion efficiency by bringing the rear wheel closer to the optimal hand position but reduces anti-tip stability, making the chair more prone to tipping backward.
Question 4: Which type of manual wheelchair is most appropriate for an active user who self-propels full time?
- Heavy-duty transport chair
- Ultra-lightweight rigid frame wheelchair (Correct answer)
- Standard folding hospital-style wheelchair
- Reclining wheelchair
Correct answer: Ultra-lightweight rigid frame wheelchair
Ultra-lightweight rigid frame wheelchairs are most appropriate for full-time active users due to their minimal weight, energy-efficient rigid frame, and customizable fit.
Question 5: The concept of 'wheelchair skills training' includes which of the following techniques?
- How to clean and maintain the wheelchair only
- Propulsion techniques, curb negotiation, wheelies, and ramp navigation (Correct answer)
- How to order replacement parts
- Cognitive training for wheelchair decision making
Correct answer: Propulsion techniques, curb negotiation, wheelies, and ramp navigation
Wheelchair skills training encompasses functional skills such as propulsion efficiency, curb negotiation, wheelie performance, and ramp and obstacle navigation.
Question 6: When measuring for hand rim diameter on a manual wheelchair, the goal is to:
- Match the rim diameter to the client's hand size
- Position the rim so the client's elbow is at 100–120 degrees when the hand is at the top of the rim (Correct answer)
- Select the largest possible rim for maximum leverage
- Match the rim to the wheel diameter exactly
Correct answer: Position the rim so the client's elbow is at 100–120 degrees when the hand is at the top of the rim
Optimal hand rim position places the elbow at 100–120 degrees when the hand contacts the top of the rim, maximizing propulsion efficiency and reducing shoulder strain.
SMS Mobility and Propulsion 1
Which propulsion pattern is most biomechanically efficient and least injurious for manual wheelchair users?