Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 10, 2026
11:16
Engineering Platform and Experimental Protocol for Design and Evaluation of a Neurally-controlled Powered Transfemoral Prosthesis
Published on: July 22, 2014
Consumer perspectives on mobility: implications for neuroprosthesis design.
Denise L Brown-Triolo1, Mary Joan Roach, Kristine Nelson
1Kent State University, Kent, OH, USA.
Journal of Rehabilitation Research and Development
|October 19, 2007
Summary
Individuals with spinal cord injuries (SCI) prioritize walking and standing mobility. They are willing to accept significant risks and costs for improved function, informing assistive technology development.
Area of Science:
- Rehabilitation Medicine
- Assistive Technology
- Disability Studies
Background:
- Spinal cord injuries (SCI) significantly impact mobility and quality of life.
- Understanding patient-centered mobility priorities is crucial for effective rehabilitation and technology design.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically assess mobility challenges and priorities from the perspective of individuals with SCI.
- To inform clinicians, researchers, and developers of assistive technologies.
Main Methods:
- A telephone survey was developed through focus groups with individuals with SCI and rehabilitation experts.
- 94 individuals with paraplegia completed telephone interviews, prioritizing mobility functions, acceptable activity quality, and risk tolerance.
Main Results:
- Walking and standing were ranked as top mobility priorities (64% and 25%).
- Acceptable quality for new mobility functions did not necessitate a return to premorbid levels.
- Individuals were willing to accept high costs for limited functional gains, challenging anecdotal assumptions.
Conclusions:
- Patient-centered data on mobility priorities and risk/cost tolerance are essential for guiding SCI rehabilitation and assistive technology development.
- Findings encourage clinicians to incorporate patient needs into treatment intervention design.
