An interactive distance solution for stroke rehabilitation in the home setting - A feasibility study

Area of Science:

• Rehabilitation Medicine
• Digital Health
• Neuroscience

Background:

• An interactive distance solution, the DISKO tool, was developed for home-based motor training post-stroke.
• The DISKO tool facilitates remote, interactive rehabilitation sessions, enhancing accessibility.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the feasibility and safety of the DISKO tool for home-based stroke rehabilitation.
• To evaluate the DISKO tool's effectiveness across different phases of stroke recovery.
• To gather insights for refining interactive distance technologies in rehabilitation.

Main Methods:

• Fifteen stroke patients participated in home-based training using the DISKO tool over 15 sessions.
• The program incorporated remote video consultations with physiotherapists.
• Patient, therapist, and technician feedback was collected via logbooks, interviews, and questionnaires; data analyzed using qualitative content analysis and descriptive statistics.

Main Results:

• 14 of 15 patients completed the training, averaging 19.5 minutes per session.
• Patients and physiotherapists reported the DISKO tool as both useful and safe.
• The system demonstrated effectiveness in supporting home-based motor training.

Conclusions:

• The DISKO tool is a feasible and safe option for interactive home-based stroke rehabilitation.
• Findings provide valuable guidance for developing and testing remote rehabilitation technologies.
• The study highlights the potential of interactive distance solutions for diverse patient needs in different rehabilitation phases.