Citation

Lee HW, Kwan HH, Cheng BF, Hung JP, Ng CK. Prosthet. Orthot. Int. 2012; 36(3): 361-365.

Affiliation

Department of Prosthetics and Orthotics, Kowloon Central Cluster (Queen Elizabeth Hospital and Kowloon Hospital), Kowloon, Hong Kong.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2012, SAGE Publishing)

DOI

10.1177/0309364612452588

PMID

22918915

Abstract

Background and Aim: Dragon boating is a non-weight-bearing sport that requires strenuous and repetitive upper body movements. Athletes with lower limb and trunk weakness are unable to participate due to insufficient seating balance and are at an increased risk of injury. This technical note presents an innovative and successful design of an adaptive seating system for dragon boating. Technique: The adaptive seating system provided an optimal trunk support and required stability through an adjustable upholder and angled seat. It also facilitated the athletes to maximize their upper limb function. Specific design for safety measures and quick installation were also highlighted. Discussion: The adaptive seating system is functional, safe, and a universal design for physically disabled athletes with lower limb and trunk weakness in dragon boating. Clinical relevance The universal adaptive seating system facilitated the safe participation of athletes with lower limb and trunk weakness in international dragon boat racing. While further study is required, the system may be applied to other forms of boat racing.

Language: en