Stroke participants’ perceptions of robotic and electrical stimulation therapy: a new approach

Hughes, Ann-Marie, Freeman, Christopher, Chappell, Paul, Lewin, Paul, Rogers, Eric, Burridge, Jane, Donovan-Hall, Maggie and Dibb, Bridget (2011) Stroke participants’ perceptions of robotic and electrical stimulation therapy: a new approach. Disability and Rehabilitation: Assistive Technology, 6 (2), 130-138. (doi:10.3109/17483107.2010.509882). (PMID:20698789)

Abstract

Purpose User perceptions are a critical, yet often ignored factor in the design and development of rehabilitation technologies. In this paper, measures for collection of patient perceptions are developed and applied to a novel upper limb workstation that combines robotic therapy and electrical stimulation. Method Five participants with chronic upper limb hemiplegia post-stroke used a robotic workstation to undertake supported tracking tasks augmented by precisely controlled electrical stimulation to their triceps muscle. Following a six week trial, a purpose designed set of questions was developed and individual interviews were conducted by an independent health psychologist. Results The simple, quick to administer question set showed participants had a positive response to the system, and contributed valuable feedback with regard to its usability and effectiveness. Participants want a home based system targeting their whole arm. Conclusion This paper demonstrates the value in assessing user perceptions of a rehabilitation system via a simple question set. Whilst the results of this study have implications for a wider audience, our recommendations are for a qualitative study to develop a generic evaluation tool which could be used across the growing number of devices to provide feedback to enhance future development of any new technology for rehabilitation.

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Contributors

Author: Ann-Marie Hughes

Author: Paul Lewin

Author: Eric Rogers

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