A blended user centred design study for wearable haptic gait rehabilitation following hemiparetic stroke

Abstract

Abstract-Restoring mobility and rehabilitation of gait are high priorities for post-stroke rehabilitation. Cueing using metronomic rhythmic sensory stimulation has been shown to improve gait, but most versions of this approach have used auditory and visual cues. In contrast, we developed a prototype wearable system for rhythmic cueing based on haptics, which was shown to be highly effective in an early pilot study. In this paper we describe a follow-up study with four stroke survivors to inform design, and to identify issues and requirements for such devices to be used in home-based or out-door settings. To this end, we present a blended user-centred design study of a wearable haptic gait rehabilitation system. This study draws on the combined views of physiotherapists, nurses, interaction designers and stroke survivors. Many of the findings were unanticipated, identifying issues outside the scope of initial designs, with important implications for future design and appropriate use.

Rhythmic Haptic Cueing for Entrainment: Assisting Post-stroke Gait Rehabilitation

“…Stroke survivors participating in our latest study (Georgiou et al 2015) responded positively to the haptic cueing, however a significant point was made regarding the intensity of the vibration. Due to their condition, and depending on how severe their stroke episode was, stroke survivors may have different levels of sensitivity on their limbs.…”

“…In a qualitative user-centred study aimed at investigating the views of stroke survivors and health professionals (Georgiou et al 2015), comments from both groups both were generally positive. More specifically, all four stroke survivors agreed that the haptic cue gave them "a rhythm to walk to".…”

“…For the qualitative, more user-centred follow up study (Georgiou et al 2015), we invited four stroke survivors (compared to one in the pilot study), three health professionals (a professor of nursing and two experienced physiotherapists) and three interaction designers. During this study, we engaged in in-depth discussions with all parties involved.…”

“…Two issues considered (Georgiou et al 2015) were the way the devices are secured on the wearer's leg, and the control the of vibration intensity.…”

Questioning Classic Patient Classification Techniques in Gait Rehabilitation: Insights from Wearable Haptic Technology

“…In particular, we were exploring the possibility of using a small wearable prototype device we designed, called The Haptic Bracelets, to deliver haptic cueing in an appropriate rhythm for walking. The Haptic Bracelets are lightweight devices wearable on both limbs at ankle level, that are capable of monitoring and analysing gait and delivering rhythmic haptic cueing via low latency vibrators on alternating legs [7].…”