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Zhang Y, Hui Z, Qi W, Zhang J, Wang M, Zhu D. Clinical study on the safety and feasibility of AiWalker-K for lower limbs exercise rehabilitation in children with cerebral palsy. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0303517. [PMID: 38776339 PMCID: PMC11111022 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0303517] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2023] [Accepted: 04/24/2024] [Indexed: 05/24/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Robotic-assisted gait training (RAGT) devices are effective for children with cerebral palsy (CP). Many RAGT devices have been created and put into clinical rehabilitation treatment. Therefore, we aimed to investigate the safety and feasibility of a new RAGT for children with CP. METHODS This study is a cross-over design with 23 subjects randomly divided into two groups. The occurrence of adverse events and changes in heart rate and blood pressure were recorded during each AiWalker-K training. Additionally, Gross Motor Function Measure-88 (GMFM-88), Pediatric Balance Scale (PBS), 6 Minutes Walking Test (6MWT), Physiological Cost Index, and Edinburgh Visual Gait Score (EVGS) were used to assess treatment, period, carry-over, and follow-up effects in this study. RESULTS Adverse events included joint pain, skin pain, and injury. Heart rate and blood pressure were higher with the AiWalker-K compared to the rest (P < 0.05), but remained within safe ranges. After combined treatment with AiWalker-K and routine rehabilitation treatment, significant improvements in 6MWT, GMFM-88 D and E, PBS, and EVGS were observed compared to routine rehabilitation treatment alone (P < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS Under the guidance of experienced medical personnel, AiWalker-K can be used for rehabilitation in children with CP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Zhang
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, the Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Zhichong Hui
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, the Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Weihang Qi
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, the Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Jiamei Zhang
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, the Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Mingmei Wang
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, the Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Dengna Zhu
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, the Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Henan Key Laboratory of Child Brain Injury and Henan Pediatric Clinical Research Center, Institute of Neuroscience and Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
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Kegelmeyer DA, Minarsch R, Kostyk SK, Kline D, Smith R, Kloos AD. Use of a Robotic Walking Device for Home and Community Mobility in Parkinson Disease: A Randomized Controlled Trial. J Neurol Phys Ther 2024; 48:102-111. [PMID: 38441461 DOI: 10.1097/npt.0000000000000467] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/10/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND/PURPOSE Gait impairments in Parkinson disease (PD) contribute to decreased quality of life. This randomized controlled trial examined immediate- and longer-term effects of a single joint robotic exoskeleton device (EXOD), the Honda Walking Assist device, on gait. METHODS Participants (n = 45) with PD (Hoehn and Yahr stages 1-3) were randomized to a robotic-assisted gait training (RAGT) group (n = 23) or control (CON) group (n = 22). The RAGT group was tested with and without the EXOD at baseline and then received supervised in-home and community training with the EXOD twice weekly for 8 weeks. The CON group received no interventions. Outcome measures included gait speed (primary), gait endurance (6-minute walk test), perceived ease of walking, and questionnaires and logs assessing performance of daily activities, freezing of gait, and daily activity levels. RESULTS Forty participants completed the study. No significant immediate impact of EXOD usage on participants' gait measures was found. Differences in gait speed and secondary outcome measures postintervention were not significantly different between the RAGT and CON groups. Participants with greater disease severity (worse baseline motor scores) had greater improvements in stride length during unassisted walking after the intervention than those with lower severity (mean difference: 3.22, 95% confidence interval: 0.05-6.40; P = 0.04). DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS All RAGT participants could use the EXOD safely. The RAGT treatment used in this mostly low impairment population of people with PD may be ineffective and/or was insufficiently dosed to see a positive treatment effect. Our findings suggest that RAGT interventions in PD may be more effective in individuals with greater motor impairments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deb A Kegelmeyer
- Division of Physical Therapy (D.A.K., R.M., R.S., A.D.K.) and Departments of Neurology and Neurosciences (S.K.K.), College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus; Center for Biostatistics (D.K.), The Ohio State University, Columbus; and Department of Biostatistics and Data Science (D.K.), Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina
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van Dellen F, Aurich-Schuler T, Labruyère R. Within- and between-therapist agreement on personalized parameters for robot-assisted gait therapy: the challenge of adjusting robotic assistance. J Neuroeng Rehabil 2023; 20:81. [PMID: 37340308 DOI: 10.1186/s12984-023-01176-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2022] [Accepted: 04/19/2023] [Indexed: 06/22/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Stationary robotic gait trainers usually allow for adjustment of training parameters, including gait speed, body weight support and robotic assistance, to personalize therapy. Consequently, therapists personalize parameter settings to pursue a relevant therapy goal for each patient. Previous work has shown that the choice of parameters influences the behavior of patients. At the same time, randomized clinical trials usually do not report the applied settings and do not consider them in the interpretation of their results. The choice of adequate parameter settings therefore remains one of the major challenges that therapists face in everyday clinical practice. For therapy to be most effective, personalization should ideally result in repeatable parameter settings for repeatable therapy situations, irrespective of the therapist who adjusts the parameters. This has not yet been investigated. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to investigate the agreement of parameter settings from session to session within a therapist and between two different therapists in children and adolescents undergoing robot-assisted gait training. METHODS AND RESULTS Fourteen patients walked in the robotic gait trainer Lokomat on 2 days. Two therapists from a pool of 5 therapists independently personalized gait speed, bodyweight support and robotic assistance for a moderately and a vigorously intensive therapy task. There was a very high agreement within and between therapists for the parameters gait speed and bodyweight support, but a substantially lower agreement for robotic assistance. CONCLUSION These findings imply that therapists perform consistently at setting parameters that have a very clear and visible clinical effect (e.g. walking speed and bodyweight support). However, they have more difficulties with robotic assistance, which has a more ambiguous effect because patients may respond differently to changes. Future work should therefore focus on better understanding patient reactions to changes in robotic assistance and especially on how instructions can be employed to steer these reactions. To improve the agreement, we propose that therapists link their choice of robotic assistance to the individual therapy goals of the patients and closely guide the patients during walking with instructions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Florian van Dellen
- Sensory-Motor Systems Lab, Department of Health Sciences and Technology, ETH Zurich, Tannenstrasse 1, 8092, Zurich, Switzerland.
- Swiss Children's Rehab, University Children's Hospital Zurich, Mühlebergstrasse 104, 8910, Affoltern Am Albis, Switzerland.
- Children's Research Center, University Children's Hospital Zurich, Steinwiesstrasse 75, CH-8032, Zurich, Switzerland.
| | - T Aurich-Schuler
- Swiss Children's Rehab, University Children's Hospital Zurich, Mühlebergstrasse 104, 8910, Affoltern Am Albis, Switzerland
- Children's Research Center, University Children's Hospital Zurich, Steinwiesstrasse 75, CH-8032, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Rob Labruyère
- Swiss Children's Rehab, University Children's Hospital Zurich, Mühlebergstrasse 104, 8910, Affoltern Am Albis, Switzerland
- Children's Research Center, University Children's Hospital Zurich, Steinwiesstrasse 75, CH-8032, Zurich, Switzerland
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Wright MA, Herzog F, Mas-Vinyals A, Carnicero-Carmona A, Lobo-Prat J, Hensel C, Franz S, Weidner N, Vidal J, Opisso E, Rupp R. Multicentric investigation on the safety, feasibility and usability of the ABLE lower-limb robotic exoskeleton for individuals with spinal cord injury: a framework towards the standardisation of clinical evaluations. J Neuroeng Rehabil 2023; 20:45. [PMID: 37046307 PMCID: PMC10091314 DOI: 10.1186/s12984-023-01165-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2022] [Accepted: 03/30/2023] [Indexed: 04/14/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Robotic lower-limb exoskeletons have the potential to provide additional clinical benefits for persons with spinal cord injury (SCI). However, high variability between protocols does not allow the comparison of study results on safety and feasibility between different exoskeletons. We therefore incorporated key aspects from previous studies into our study protocol and accordingly conducted a multicentre study investigating the safety, feasibility and usability of the ABLE Exoskeleton in clinical settings. METHODS In this prospective pretest-posttest quasi-experimental study across two SCI centres in Germany and Spain, in- and outpatients with SCI were recruited into a 12-session training and assessment protocol, utilising the ABLE Exoskeleton. A follow-up visit after 4 weeks was included to assess after-training outcomes. Safety outcomes (device-related adverse events (AEs), number of drop-outs), feasibility and usability measures (level of assistance, donning/doffing-time) were recorded at every session together with changes in gait parameters and function. Patient-reported outcome measures including the rate of perceived exertion (RPE) and the psychosocial impact of the device were performed. Satisfaction with the device was evaluated in both participants and therapists. RESULTS All 24 participants (45 ± 12 years), with mainly subacute SCI (< 1 year after injury) from C5 to L3, (ASIA Impairment Scale A to D) completed the follow-up. In 242 training sessions, 8 device-related AEs (pain and skin lesions) were reported. Total time for don and doff was 6:50 ± 2:50 min. Improvements in level of assistance and gait parameters (time, steps, distance and speed, p < 0.05) were observed in all participants. Walking function and RPE improved in participants able to complete walking tests with (n = 9) and without (n = 6) the device at study start (p < 0.05). A positive psychosocial impact of the exoskeleton was reported and the satisfaction with the device was good, with best ratings in safety (participants), weight (therapists), durability and dimensions (both). CONCLUSIONS Our study results prove the feasibility of safe gait training with the ABLE Exoskeleton in hospital settings for persons with SCI, with improved clinical outcomes after training. Our study protocol allowed for consistent comparison of the results with other exoskeleton trials and can serve as a future framework towards the standardisation of early clinical evaluations. Trial Registration https://trialsearch.who.int/ , DRKS00023503, retrospectively registered on November 18, 2020.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark Andrew Wright
- Institut Guttmann, University Institute attached to the Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Badalona, Barcelona, Spain
- Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Cerdanyola del Vallès, Spain
- Fundació Institut d'Investigació en Ciències de la Salut Germans Trias i Pujol, Badalona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Franziska Herzog
- Spinal Cord Injury Center, Heidelberg University Hospital, Schlierbacher Landstraße 200a, 69118, Heidelberg, Germany
| | | | | | | | - Cornelia Hensel
- Spinal Cord Injury Center, Heidelberg University Hospital, Schlierbacher Landstraße 200a, 69118, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Steffen Franz
- Spinal Cord Injury Center, Heidelberg University Hospital, Schlierbacher Landstraße 200a, 69118, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Norbert Weidner
- Spinal Cord Injury Center, Heidelberg University Hospital, Schlierbacher Landstraße 200a, 69118, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Joan Vidal
- Institut Guttmann, University Institute attached to the Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Badalona, Barcelona, Spain
- Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Cerdanyola del Vallès, Spain
- Fundació Institut d'Investigació en Ciències de la Salut Germans Trias i Pujol, Badalona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Eloy Opisso
- Institut Guttmann, University Institute attached to the Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Badalona, Barcelona, Spain
- Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Cerdanyola del Vallès, Spain
- Fundació Institut d'Investigació en Ciències de la Salut Germans Trias i Pujol, Badalona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Rüdiger Rupp
- Spinal Cord Injury Center, Heidelberg University Hospital, Schlierbacher Landstraße 200a, 69118, Heidelberg, Germany.
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Fundarò C, Casale R, Maestri R, Traversoni S, Colombo R, Salvini S, Ferretti C, Bartolo M, Buonocore M, Giardini A. Technology Assisted Rehabilitation Patient Perception Questionnaire (TARPP-Q): development and implementation of an instrument to evaluate patients' perception during training. J Neuroeng Rehabil 2023; 20:35. [PMID: 36964543 PMCID: PMC10037786 DOI: 10.1186/s12984-023-01146-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2022] [Accepted: 01/27/2023] [Indexed: 03/26/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The introduction of technology-assisted rehabilitation (TAR) uncovers promising challenges for the treatment of motor disorders, particularly if combined with exergaming. Patients with neurological diseases have proved to benefit from TAR, improving their performance in several activities. However, the subjective perception of the device has never been fully addressed, being a conditioning factor for its use. The aims of the study were: (a) to develop a questionnaire on patients' personal experience with TAR and exergames in a real-world clinical setting; (b) to administer the questionnaire to a pilot group of neurologic patients to assess its feasibility and statistical properties. METHODS A self-administrable and close-ended questionnaire, Technology Assisted Rehabilitation Patient Perception Questionnaire (TARPP-Q), designed by a multidisciplinary team, was developed in Italian through a Delphi procedure. An English translation has been developed with consensus, for understandability purposes. The ultimate version of the questionnaire was constituted of 10 questions (5 with multiple answers), totalling 29 items, exploring the patient's performance and personal experience with TAR with Augmented Performance Feedback. TARPP-Q was then administered pre-post training in an observational, feasible, multi-centric study. The study involved in-patients aged between 18 and 85 with neurological diseases, admitted for rehabilitation with TAR (upper limb or gait). FIM scale was run to control functional performance. RESULTS Forty-four patients were included in the study. All patients answered the TARPP-Q autonomously. There were no unaccounted answers. Exploratory factor analyses identified 4 factors: Positive attitude, Usability, Hindrance perception, and Distress. Internal consistency was measured at T0. The values of Cronbach's alpha ranged from 0.72 (Distress) to 0.92 (Positive attitude). Functional Independence Measure (FIM®) scores and all TARPP-Q factors (Positive attitude, Usability, Hindrance perception, except for Distress (p = 0.11), significantly improved at the end of the treatment. A significant positive correlation between Positive attitude and Usability was also recorded. CONCLUSIONS The TARPP-Q highlights the importance of patients' personal experience with TAR and exergaming. Large-scale applications of this questionnaire may clarify the role of patients' perception of training effectiveness, helping to customize devices and interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cira Fundarò
- Istituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri Spa SB IRCCS Neurophysiopathology Unit of Montescano Institute, Pavia, PV, Italy.
| | - Roberto Casale
- OPUSMedica PC&R, Persons, Care & Research, Piacenza, Italy
| | - Roberto Maestri
- Istituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri, IRCCS Department of Biomedical Engineering of Montescano Institute, Pavia, PV, Italy
| | - Silvia Traversoni
- Istituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri IT Department, IRCCS Pavia, Pavia, PV, Italy
| | - Roberto Colombo
- Istituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri IRCCS Veruno, Veruno, NO, Italy
| | - Silvana Salvini
- Istituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri Spa SB IRCCS Neurophysiopathology Unit of Montescano Institute, Pavia, PV, Italy
| | - Chiara Ferretti
- Istituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri IRCSS Neuromotor Rehabilitation Unit of Montescano Institute, Pavia, PV, Italy
| | - Michelangelo Bartolo
- Habilita Department of Rehabilitation, Neurorehabilitation Unit, HABILITA Zingonia, Ciserano, Bergamo, Italy
| | - Michelangelo Buonocore
- Istituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri Spa SB IRCCS Neurophysiopathology Unit of Montescano Institute, Pavia, PV, Italy
| | - Anna Giardini
- Istituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri IT Department, IRCCS Pavia, Pavia, PV, Italy
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Zanatta F, Farhane-Medina NZ, Adorni R, Steca P, Giardini A, D'Addario M, Pierobon A. Combining robot-assisted therapy with virtual reality or using it alone? A systematic review on health-related quality of life in neurological patients. Health Qual Life Outcomes 2023; 21:18. [PMID: 36810124 PMCID: PMC9942343 DOI: 10.1186/s12955-023-02097-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2022] [Accepted: 02/07/2023] [Indexed: 02/24/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In the field of neurorehabilitation, robot-assisted therapy (RAT) and virtual reality (VR) have so far shown promising evidence on multiple motor and functional outcomes. The related effectiveness on patients' health-related quality of life (HRQoL) has been investigated across neurological populations but still remains unclear. The present study aimed to systematically review the studies investigating the effects of RAT alone and with VR on HRQoL in patients with different neurological diseases. METHODS A systematic review of the studies evaluating the impact of RAT alone and combined with VR on HRQoL in patients affected by neurological diseases (i.e., stroke, multiple sclerosis, spinal cord injury, Parkinson's Disease) was conducted according to PRISMA guidelines. Electronic searches of PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, CINAHL, Embase, and PsychINFO (2000-2022) were performed. Risk of bias was evaluated through the National Institute of Health Quality Assessment Tool. Descriptive data regarding the study design, participants, intervention, rehabilitation outcomes, robotic device typology, HRQoL measures, non-motor factors concurrently investigated, and main results were extracted and meta-synthetized. RESULTS The searches identified 3025 studies, of which 70 met the inclusion criteria. An overall heterogeneous configuration was found regarding the study design adopted, intervention procedures and technological devices implemented, rehabilitation outcomes (i.e., related to both upper and lower limb impairment), HRQoL measures administered, and main evidence. Most of the studies reported significant effects of both RAT and RAT plus VR on patients HRQoL, whether they adopted generic or disease-specific HRQoL measures. Significant post-intervention within-group changes were mainly found across neurological populations, while fewer studies reported significant between-group comparisons, and then, mostly in patients with stroke. Longitudinal investigations were also observed (up to 36 months), but significant longitudinal effects were exclusively found in patients with stroke or multiple sclerosis. Finally, concurrent evaluations on non-motor outcomes beside HRQoL included cognitive (i.e., memory, attention, executive functions) and psychological (i.e., mood, satisfaction with the treatment, device usability, fear of falling, motivation, self-efficacy, coping, and well-being) variables. CONCLUSIONS Despite the heterogeneity observed among the studies included, promising evidence was found on the effectiveness of RAT and RAT plus VR on HRQoL. However, further targeted short- and long-term investigations, are strongly recommended for specific HRQoL subcomponents and neurological populations, through the adoption of defined intervention procedures and disease-specific assessment methodology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Zanatta
- Department of Psychology, University of Milano-Bicocca, Milan, Italy
| | - Naima Z Farhane-Medina
- Maimonides Biomedical Research Institute of Córdoba (IMIBIC), Córdoba, Spain
- Department of Psychology, University of Córdoba, Córdoba, Spain
| | - Roberta Adorni
- Department of Psychology, University of Milano-Bicocca, Milan, Italy.
| | - Patrizia Steca
- Department of Psychology, University of Milano-Bicocca, Milan, Italy
| | - Anna Giardini
- Information Technology Department, Istituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri IRCCS, Pavia, Italy
| | - Marco D'Addario
- Department of Psychology, University of Milano-Bicocca, Milan, Italy
| | - Antonia Pierobon
- Psychology Unit of Montescano Institute, Istituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri IRCCS, Montescano, Italy
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Zanatta F, Steca P, Fundarò C, Giardini A, Felicetti G, Panigazzi M, Arbasi G, Grilli C, D’Addario M, Pierobon A. Biopsychosocial effects and experience of use of robotic and virtual reality devices in neuromotor rehabilitation: A study protocol. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0282925. [PMID: 36897863 PMCID: PMC10004562 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0282925] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2022] [Accepted: 02/18/2023] [Indexed: 03/11/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Robot-assisted therapy (RAT) and virtual reality (VR)-based neuromotor rehabilitation have shown promising evidence in terms of patient's neuromotor recovery, so far. However, still little is known on the perceived experience of use of robotic and VR devices and the related psychosocial impact. The present study outlines a study protocol aiming to investigate the biopsychosocial effects and the experience of use of robotic and non-immersive VR devices in patients undergoing neuromotor rehabilitation. METHODS Adopting a prospective, two-arm, non-randomized study design, patients with different neuromotor diseases (i.e., acquired brain injury, Parkinson's Disease, and total knee/hip arthroplasty) undergoing rehabilitation will be included. In a real-world clinical setting, short- (4 weeks) and long-term (6 months) changes in multiple patient's health domains will be investigated, including the functional status (i.e., motor functioning, ADLs, risk of falls), cognitive functioning (i.e., attention and executive functions), physical and mental health-related quality of life (HRQoL), and the psychological status (i.e., anxiety and depression, quality of life satisfaction). At post-intervention, the overall rehabilitation experience, the psychosocial impact of the robotic and VR devices will be assessed, and technology perceived usability and experience of use will be evaluated through a mixed-methods approach, including both patients' and physiotherapists' perspectives. Repeated measures within-between interaction effects will be estimated, and association analyses will be performed to explore the inter-relationships among the variables investigated. Data collection is currently ongoing. IMPLICATIONS The biopsychosocial framework adopted will contribute to expanding the perspective on patient's recovery within the technology-based rehabilitation field beyond motor improvement. Moreover, the investigation of devices experience of use and usability will provide further insight into technology deployment in neuromotor rehabilitation programs, thereby maximising therapy engagement and effectiveness. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov ID: NCT05399043.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Zanatta
- Department of Psychology, University of Milano-Bicocca, Milan, Italy
| | - Patrizia Steca
- Department of Psychology, University of Milano-Bicocca, Milan, Italy
| | - Cira Fundarò
- Istituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri IRCCS, Neurophysiopathology Unit of Montescano Institute, Montescano, Italy
- * E-mail:
| | - Anna Giardini
- Istituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri IRCCS, Information Technology Department of Pavia Institute, Pavia, Italy
| | - Guido Felicetti
- Istituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri IRCCS, Neuromotor Rehabilitation Unit of Montescano Institute, Montescano, Italy
| | - Monica Panigazzi
- Istituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri IRCCS, Occupational Physiatry and Ergonomics Unit of Montescano Institute, Montescano, Italy
| | - Giovanni Arbasi
- Istituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri IRCCS, Neuromotor Rehabilitation Unit of Montescano Institute, Montescano, Italy
| | - Cesare Grilli
- Istituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri IRCCS, Occupational Physiatry and Ergonomics Unit of Montescano Institute, Montescano, Italy
| | - Marco D’Addario
- Department of Psychology, University of Milano-Bicocca, Milan, Italy
| | - Antonia Pierobon
- Istituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri IRCCS, Psychology Unit of Montescano Institute, Montescano, Italy
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Cevei M, Onofrei RR, Gherle A, Gug C, Stoicanescu D. Rehabilitation of Post-COVID-19 Musculoskeletal Sequelae in Geriatric Patients: A Case Series Study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph192215350. [PMID: 36430069 PMCID: PMC9691035 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph192215350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2022] [Accepted: 11/17/2022] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
The musculoskeletal system is affected in over 40% of patients with Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). There is an increased need for post-acute rehabilitation after COVID-19, especially in elderly people with underlying health problems. The aim of this study was to evaluate the benefits of an early and goal-orientated rehabilitation program using combined approaches, robotic medical devices together with other rehabilitation techniques and therapies, in elderly people after acute COVID-19. Ninety-one patients (62.64 ± 14.21 years) previously diagnosed with severe SARS-CoV-2 infection were admitted to the Medical Rehabilitation Clinical Hospital Baile Felix, Romania, for medical rehabilitation, but only six patients (85.33 ± 3.07 years) met the inclusion criteria and participated in the study. The rehabilitation treatment was complex, performed over 4 weeks, and included combined approaches: exercise therapy, robotic gait training, occupational therapy, and massages. Activity and participation evaluation were performed using the Barthel Index and Functional Independence Measure for activities of daily living (ADLs). Assessments were performed at admission and discharge from the rehabilitation clinic. Lokomat patients' reports revealed that the patients had improved motor control (with one exception). The measurement of functional ability revealed an improvement in most cases. This study presents some of the first data on outcomes of COVID-19 patients' musculoskeletal rehabilitation in our country. Early complex medical rehabilitation improved functional independence and autonomy in ADLs in very old patients, post-COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariana Cevei
- Psychoneuro Sciences and Rehabilitation Department, Faculty of Medicine & Pharmacy, University of Oradea, 410087 Oradea, Romania
| | - Roxana Ramona Onofrei
- Department of Rehabilitation, Physical Medicine and Rheumatology, Research Center for Assessment of Human Motion, Functionality and Disability, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Anamaria Gherle
- Psychoneuro Sciences and Rehabilitation Department, Faculty of Medicine & Pharmacy, University of Oradea, 410087 Oradea, Romania
| | - Cristina Gug
- Microscopic Morphology Department, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Dorina Stoicanescu
- Microscopic Morphology Department, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
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The Outcomes of Robotic Rehabilitation Assisted Devices Following Spinal Cord Injury and the Prevention of Secondary Associated Complications. Medicina (B Aires) 2022; 58:medicina58101447. [PMID: 36295607 PMCID: PMC9611825 DOI: 10.3390/medicina58101447] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2022] [Revised: 10/05/2022] [Accepted: 10/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Spinal cord injuries (SCIs) have major consequences on the patient’s health and life. Voluntary muscle paralysis caused by spinal cord damage affects the patient’s independence. Following SCI, an irreversible motor and sensory deficit occurs (spasticity, muscle paralysis, atrophy, pain, gait disorders, pain). This pathology has implications on the whole organism: on the osteoarticular, muscular, cardiovascular, respiratory, gastrointestinal, genito-urinary, skin, metabolic disorders, and neuro-psychic systems. The rehabilitation process for a subject having SCIs can be considered complex, since the pathophysiological mechanism and biochemical modifications occurring at the level of spinal cord are not yet fully elucidated. This review aims at evaluating the impact of robotic-assisted rehabilitation in subjects who have suffered SCI, both in terms of regaining mobility as a major dysfunction in patients with SCI, but also in terms of improving overall fitness and cardiovascular function, respiratory function, as well as the gastrointestinal system, bone density and finally the psychosocial issues, based on multiple clinical trials, and pilot studies. The researched literature in the topic revealed that in order to increase the chances of neuro-motor recovery and to obtain satisfactory results, the combination of robotic therapy, a complex recovery treatment and specific medication is one of the best decisions. Furthermore, the use of these exoskeletons facilitates better/greater autonomy for patients, as well as optimal social integration.
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Just IA, Fries D, Loewe S, Falk V, Cesarovic N, Edelmann F, Feuerstein A, Haufe FL, Xiloyannis M, Riener R, Schoenrath F. Movement therapy in advanced heart failure assisted by a lightweight wearable robot: a feasibility pilot study. ESC Heart Fail 2022; 9:1643-1650. [PMID: 35320878 PMCID: PMC9065814 DOI: 10.1002/ehf2.13903] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2021] [Revised: 02/03/2022] [Accepted: 03/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
AIMS The aim of this pilot study was to investigate the safety, feasibility, tolerability, and acceptability of an assisted mobilization of advanced heart failure patients, using a lightweight, exoskeleton-type robot (Myosuit, MyoSwiss AG, Zurich, Switzerland). METHODS AND RESULTS Twenty patients in functional NYHA class III performed activities of daily life (ADL, n = 10) or participated in a single, standardized, 60 min rehabilitation exercise unit (REU, n = 10) with and without the Myosuit. The outcome assessment included the evaluation of vital signs, adverse events, rates of perceived exertion and dyspnoea (RPE, RPD), the ability to perform ADL or REU, and the individual acceptability. The mean age of the subjects was 49.4 (±11.0) years; 80% were male. The mean left ventricular ejection fraction was 22.1% (±7.4%) and the median NT-proBNP 2054 pg/mL (IQR 677, 3270 pg/mL). In all patients, mobilization with the Myosuit was feasible independently or with minor support. The mean individual difference in the total walking distance of the patients without and with robotic assistance was -26.5 m (95% confidence interval (CI) -142 to 78 m, P = 0.241). No adverse events occurred. RPE and RPD showed no significant difference with or without the device (ADL: RPE -0.1 m, 95% CI -1.42 to 1.62, P = 0.932 and RPD -0.95 m, 95% CI -0.38 to 2.28, P = 0.141; REU: RPE 1.1 m, 95% CI -2.90 to 0.70, P = 0.201 and RPD 0.5 m, 95% CI -2.02 to 1.02, P = 0.435). All median responses in the acceptability questionnaire were positive. The patients felt safe and enjoyed the experience; 85% would be interested in participating in robot-assisted training on a regular basis. CONCLUSION This feasibility pilot trial provides first indications that a robotic exoskeleton-assisted mobilization of patients with advanced heart failure is safe, feasible, well-tolerated, and well-accepted. The results are highly encouraging to further pursue this innovative approach in rehabilitation programmes. This trial was registered at ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT04839133.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabell Anna Just
- Department of Cardiothoracic and Vascular SurgeryGerman Heart Center BerlinBerlinGermany
- DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), Partner Site BerlinBerlinGermany
| | - Denis Fries
- Department of Cardiothoracic and Vascular SurgeryGerman Heart Center BerlinBerlinGermany
| | - Sina Loewe
- Department of Cardiothoracic and Vascular SurgeryGerman Heart Center BerlinBerlinGermany
| | - Volkmar Falk
- Department of Cardiothoracic and Vascular SurgeryGerman Heart Center BerlinBerlinGermany
- DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), Partner Site BerlinBerlinGermany
- Department of Cardiothoracic SurgeryCharité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt‐Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of HealthBerlinGermany
- Translational Cardiovascular Technologies, Department of Health SciencesETH ZürichZürichSwitzerland
| | - Nikola Cesarovic
- Department of Cardiothoracic and Vascular SurgeryGerman Heart Center BerlinBerlinGermany
- Translational Cardiovascular Technologies, Department of Health SciencesETH ZürichZürichSwitzerland
| | - Frank Edelmann
- Department of CardiologyCharité‐Universitätsmedizin BerlinBerlinGermany
- DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), Partner Site GöttingenGöttingenGermany
| | - Anna Feuerstein
- DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), Partner Site BerlinBerlinGermany
- Department of CardiologyCharité‐Universitätsmedizin BerlinBerlinGermany
| | - Florian L. Haufe
- Sensory‐Motor Systems (SMS) Lab, Institute of Robotics and Intelligent Systems (IRIS)ETH ZürichZürichSwitzerland
- Spinal Cord Injury Center, Balgrist University Hospital, Medical FacultyUniversity of ZurichZürichSwitzerland
| | - Michele Xiloyannis
- Sensory‐Motor Systems (SMS) Lab, Institute of Robotics and Intelligent Systems (IRIS)ETH ZürichZürichSwitzerland
- Spinal Cord Injury Center, Balgrist University Hospital, Medical FacultyUniversity of ZurichZürichSwitzerland
| | - Robert Riener
- Sensory‐Motor Systems (SMS) Lab, Institute of Robotics and Intelligent Systems (IRIS)ETH ZürichZürichSwitzerland
- Spinal Cord Injury Center, Balgrist University Hospital, Medical FacultyUniversity of ZurichZürichSwitzerland
| | - Felix Schoenrath
- Department of Cardiothoracic and Vascular SurgeryGerman Heart Center BerlinBerlinGermany
- DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), Partner Site BerlinBerlinGermany
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van Dellen F, Labruyère R. Settings matter: a scoping review on parameters in robot-assisted gait therapy identifies the importance of reporting standards. J Neuroeng Rehabil 2022; 19:40. [PMID: 35459246 PMCID: PMC9034544 DOI: 10.1186/s12984-022-01017-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2021] [Accepted: 04/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Lokomat therapy for gait rehabilitation has become increasingly popular. Most evidence suggests that Lokomat therapy is equally effective as but not superior to standard therapy approaches. One reason might be that the Lokomat parameters to personalize therapy, such as gait speed, body weight support and Guidance Force, are not optimally used. However, there is little evidence available about the influence of Lokomat parameters on the effectiveness of the therapy. Nevertheless, an appropriate reporting of the applied therapy parameters is key to the successful clinical transfer of study results. The aim of this scoping review was therefore to evaluate how the currently available clinical studies report Lokomat parameter settings and map the current literature on Lokomat therapy parameters. Methods and results A systematic literature search was performed in three databases: Pubmed, Scopus and Embase. All primary research articles performing therapy with the Lokomat in neurologic populations in English or German were included. The quality of reporting of all clinical studies was assessed with a framework developed for this particular purpose. We identified 208 studies investigating Lokomat therapy in patients with neurologic diseases. The reporting quality was generally poor. Less than a third of the studies indicate which parameter settings have been applied. The usability of the reporting for a clinical transfer of promising results is therefore limited. Conclusion Although the currently available evidence on Lokomat parameters suggests that therapy parameters might have an influence on the effectiveness, there is currently not enough evidence available to provide detailed recommendations. Nevertheless, clinicians should pay close attention to the reported therapy parameters when translating research findings to their own clinical practice. To this end, we propose that the quality of reporting should be improved and we provide a reporting framework for authors as a quality control before submitting a Lokomat-related article. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12984-022-01017-3.
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Affiliation(s)
- Florian van Dellen
- Sensory-Motor Systems Lab, Department of Health Sciences and Technology, ETH Zurich, Tannenstrasse 1, 8092, Zurich, Switzerland. .,Swiss Children's Rehab, University Children's Hospital Zurich, Mühlebergstrasse 104, 8910, Affoltern am Albis, Switzerland. .,Children's Research Center, University Children's Hospital of Zurich, University of Zurich, Steinwiesstrasse 75, 8032, Zurich, Switzerland.
| | - Rob Labruyère
- Swiss Children's Rehab, University Children's Hospital Zurich, Mühlebergstrasse 104, 8910, Affoltern am Albis, Switzerland.,Children's Research Center, University Children's Hospital of Zurich, University of Zurich, Steinwiesstrasse 75, 8032, Zurich, Switzerland
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12
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Monardo G, Pavese C, Giorgi I, Godi M, Colombo R. Evaluation of Patient Motivation and Satisfaction During Technology-Assisted Rehabilitation: An Experiential Review. Games Health J 2021; 10:13-27. [DOI: 10.1089/g4h.2020.0024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Monardo
- Service of Psychology and Istituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri, IRCCS, Pavia, Italy
| | - Chiara Pavese
- Neurorehabilitation and Spinal Unit, Istituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri, IRCCS, Pavia, Italy
- Department of Clinical-Surgical, Diagnostic, and Pediatric Sciences, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Ines Giorgi
- Service of Psychology and Istituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri, IRCCS, Pavia, Italy
| | - Marco Godi
- Division of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation and Istituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri, IRCCS, Veruno, Italy
| | - Roberto Colombo
- Service of Bioengineering, Istituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri, IRCCS, Veruno, Italy
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13
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Carswell C, Rea PM. What the Tech? The Management of Neurological Dysfunction Through the Use of Digital Technology. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2021; 1317:131-145. [PMID: 33945135 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-61125-5_7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Worldwide, it is estimated that millions of individuals suffer from a neurological disorder which can be the result of head injuries, ischaemic events such as a stroke, or neurodegenerative disorders such as Parkinson's disease (PD) and multiple sclerosis (MS). Problems with mobility and hemiparesis are common for these patients, making daily life, social factors and independence heavily affected. Current therapies aimed at improving such conditions are often tedious in nature, with patients often losing vital motivation and positive outlook towards their rehabilitation. The interest in the use of digital technology in neuro-rehabilitation has skyrocketed in the past decade. To gain insight, a systematic review of the literature in the field was conducting following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-analyses (PRISMA) guidelines for three categories: stroke, Parkinson's disease and multiple sclerosis. It was found that the majority of the literature (84%) was in favour of the use of digital technologies in the management of neurological dysfunction; with some papers taking a "neutral" or "against" standpoint. It was found that the use of technologies such as virtual reality (VR), robotics, wearable sensors and telehealth was highly accepted by patients, helped to improve function, reduced anxiety and make therapy more accessible to patients living in more remote areas. The most successful therapies were those that used a combination of conventional therapies and new digital technologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caitlin Carswell
- Anatomy Facility, School of Life Sciences, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Paul M Rea
- School of Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK.
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Effects of body weight-supported treadmill training at different speeds on the motor function and depressive behaviors after spinal cord injury in rats. Neuroreport 2020; 31:1265-1273. [DOI: 10.1097/wnr.0000000000001543] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
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15
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Gilardi F, De Falco F, Casasanta D, Andellini M, Gazzellini S, Petrarca M, Morocutti A, Lettori D, Ritrovato M, Castelli E, Raponi M, Magnavita N, Zaffina S. Robotic Technology in Pediatric Neurorehabilitation. A Pilot Study of Human Factors in an Italian Pediatric Hospital. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:E3503. [PMID: 32429562 PMCID: PMC7277142 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17103503] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2020] [Revised: 05/08/2020] [Accepted: 05/13/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
The introduction of robotic neurorehabilitation among the most recent technologies in pediatrics represents a new opportunity to treat pediatric patients. This study aims at evaluating the response of physiotherapists, patients and their parents to this new technology. The study considered the outcomes of technological innovation in physiotherapists (perception of the workload, satisfaction), as well as that in patients and their parents (quality of life, expectations, satisfaction) by comparing the answers to subjective questionnaires of those who made use of the new technology with those who used the traditional therapy. A total of 12 workers, 46 patients and 47 parents were enrolled in the study. Significant differences were recorded in the total workload score of physiotherapists who use the robotic technology compared with the traditional therapy (p < 0.001). Patients reported a higher quality of life and satisfaction after the use of the robotic neurorehabilitation therapy. The parents of patients undergoing the robotic therapy have moderately higher expectations and satisfaction than those undergoing the traditional therapy. In this pilot study, the robotic neurorehabilitation technique involved a significant increase in the patients' and parents' expectations. As it frequently happens in the introduction of new technologies, physiotherapists perceived a greater workload. Further studies are needed to verify the results achieved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Gilardi
- Health Directorate, Occupational Medicine Unit, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, IRCCS, 00165 Rome, Italy; (F.G.); (F.D.F.); (D.C.)
| | - Federica De Falco
- Health Directorate, Occupational Medicine Unit, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, IRCCS, 00165 Rome, Italy; (F.G.); (F.D.F.); (D.C.)
| | - Daniela Casasanta
- Health Directorate, Occupational Medicine Unit, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, IRCCS, 00165 Rome, Italy; (F.G.); (F.D.F.); (D.C.)
| | - Martina Andellini
- Health Technology Assessment Unit, Health Technology & Safety Research Unit, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, 00165 Rome, Italy; (M.A.); (M.R.)
| | - Simone Gazzellini
- Neurorehabilitation Units, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, IRCCS, 00165 Rome, Italy; (S.G.); (M.P.); (A.M.); (D.L.); (E.C.)
| | - Maurizio Petrarca
- Neurorehabilitation Units, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, IRCCS, 00165 Rome, Italy; (S.G.); (M.P.); (A.M.); (D.L.); (E.C.)
| | - Andreina Morocutti
- Neurorehabilitation Units, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, IRCCS, 00165 Rome, Italy; (S.G.); (M.P.); (A.M.); (D.L.); (E.C.)
| | - Donatella Lettori
- Neurorehabilitation Units, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, IRCCS, 00165 Rome, Italy; (S.G.); (M.P.); (A.M.); (D.L.); (E.C.)
| | - Matteo Ritrovato
- Health Technology Assessment Unit, Health Technology & Safety Research Unit, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, 00165 Rome, Italy; (M.A.); (M.R.)
| | - Enrico Castelli
- Neurorehabilitation Units, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, IRCCS, 00165 Rome, Italy; (S.G.); (M.P.); (A.M.); (D.L.); (E.C.)
| | - Massimiliano Raponi
- Health Directorate, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, IRCCS, 00165 Rome, Italy;
| | - Nicola Magnavita
- Post-Graduate School of Occupational Health, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 00168 Rome, Italy;
- Department of Woman, Child & Public Health, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Salvatore Zaffina
- Health Directorate, Occupational Medicine Unit, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, IRCCS, 00165 Rome, Italy; (F.G.); (F.D.F.); (D.C.)
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Linking the Psychosocial Impact of Assistive Devices Scale (PIADS) to the International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health. Qual Life Res 2018; 27:3217-3227. [PMID: 30132254 DOI: 10.1007/s11136-018-1973-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/16/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Assistive technologies are widely implemented in clinical and research settings. Despite their dissemination, the psychosocial impact of their adoption still deserves further consideration. The aim of the present study is to determine the degree of compatibility between the Psychosocial Impact of Assistive Devices Scale (PIADS) and the International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health (ICF). METHODS Six health professionals (two neurologists, one neuro-rehabilitation technician, two psychologists, one university professor of rehabilitation) created a technical board to discuss upon the PIADS-ICF linking. The standardized linking methodology was applied, and a Delphi technique was used to examine consensus. RESULTS Five Delphi sessions were required to reach 100% of consensus and to finalize the procedure. Of the 26 PIADS' items, 23 were linked to an ICF category: 9 items were endorsed at the 3rd ICF level, and 14 items at the 2nd ICF level. Two items were classified as "not defined" and 1 item as "not covered". CONCLUSION The study highlighted the conceptual connection between the PIADS and the ICF framework and set a bio-psychosocial standpoint by which accounting the role of assistive devices in rehabilitation settings.
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