Can the Kinect detect differences between proper and improper wheelchair transfer techniques?

Improper transfer technique predisposes wheelchair users to upper limb joint pain and injuries. The purpose of the current study is to investigate if the Kinect can distinguish between proper and improper transfer techniques. Nine full time wheelchair users performed sitting pivot transfers and the quality of their transfer was scored using the Transfer Assessment Instrument (TAI). Seven unimpaired subjects were also asked to perform four different types of improper transfer techniques that were compared to a proper TAI-based technique. Upper extremities and trunk motion during the transfer trials were measured in both groups using the Kinect. Larger angles of trunk flexion (p= 0.02), shoulder elevation (p< 0.06), and larger head-hip relative velocity (p= 0.02) and acceleration (p= 0.06) were detected when the subjects performed headhip relationships correctly. The Kinect was also able to delineate between correct and incorrect arm positions (p ranges from 0.02 to 0.09). The results suggest the Kinect may be used as a tool to help wheelchair users and therapists assess and train proper transfer techniques.