A novel assistive therapy chair to improve trunk control during neurorehabilitation: Perceptions of physical therapists and patients. (July 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Bauer, C.M.; Nast, I.; Scheermesser, M.; Kuster, R.P.; Textor, D.; Wenger, M.; Kool, J.; Baumgartner, D.
• Is Part Of: Applied ergonomics. Volume 94(2021)
• Publication Date: 2021-07
• Subjects: Stroke -- Trunk stability and control -- Robot-assisted therapy; Human engineering -- Periodicals; 620.82
• DOI: 10.1016/j.apergo.2021.103390
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0003-6870

Abstract

Abstract: A prototype assistive therapy chair (T-Chair) that induces exercise stimuli to improve trunk control and standing and walking early after stroke has been developed. The aim of this study was to assess its usability in a rehabilitation setting. Eleven physical therapists (PTs) integrated the T-Chair into the therapy programs of 15 patients post stroke. Each patient performed on average four individual therapy sessions on the T-Chair under the PTs' supervision. Usability was assessed using questionnaires, therapy diaries and focus group interviews with PTs'. Among PTs', 64% had generally a positive view on the T-Chair. Physical therapists recognized the potential for unsupervised therapy. Generally, patients reacted positively and enjoyed training. The T-Chair has the potential to become an adequate training tool for patients with an intermediate trunk control after stroke. Further development and usability testing are required to provide a therapeutic device allowing for an intensive therapy early post stroke. Highlights: An assistive therapy chair for trunk control training post stroke has been developed. Physical therapists recognized the chairs potential for unsupervised therapy. Patients reacted positively to the chair and enjoyed training. Additional feedback modalities should be integrated.