Abstract
Approximately 300 farmers acquire a spinal cord injury (SCI) each year. Farmers with SCI who operate agricultural machinery are at greater risk of injury. This scoping review summarized research on tractor seating modifications for farmers with SCI.
Primary Author and Speaker: Carla Wilhite
Contributing Authors: Jacquelyn Coffman, Tyler Cole, Jennifer Fortuna, Laureen Cantwell-Jurkovic
Approximately 300 farmers and ranchers acquire a spinal cord injury (SCI) every year. Farmers with SCI who operate agricultural machinery are at increased risk of injury to the integument and musculoskeletal systems. Standard tractor seating lacks the support needed for proper body positioning and balance and can lead to development of pressure ulcers (PU). Farmers who develop a severe PU must take time off from work to recover. The healing process has productivity and financial implications that can be devastating to a farm business. The purpose of this scoping review is to summarize existing research on tractor seating modifications for farmers with SCI. Gaps in the literature were identified to inform future research. The authors collaborated with a research librarian to develop a comprehensive search strategy. To be included in this study, articles had to be published in English, peer reviewed, specific to tractor seating, and include people with SCI. Descriptive statistics and qualitative thematic analysis were used to summarize and report the data. Five articles met the inclusion criteria. The primary theme in the literature was the capability of various seating options to redistribute pressure. Pressure distribution by cushion type was also explored. Additional research is needed to investigate the effectiveness of different cushion materials for people with SCI. Findings from this study will increase understanding of how modified tractor seating may impact participation for this population. This study is needed because it highlights an under-researched area.
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