Customized Power Wheelchair Joysticks Made by Three-Dimensional Printing Technology: A Pilot Study on the Environmental Adaptation Effects for Severe Quadriplegia

International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 2021 · DOI: https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18147464 · Published: July 13, 2021

Spinal Cord Injury Assistive Technology Rehabilitation

Simple Explanation

Standard power wheelchair joysticks often don't fit the unique needs of people with hand dysfunction. This study explores using 3D printing to create custom joysticks. The goal was to see if these custom joysticks could improve driving ability and satisfaction for quadriplegic patients. The patients used the customized joysticks for two weeks before assessment. The study found that patients generally improved their driving skills and were more satisfied with the customized joysticks, suggesting this technology could be helpful.

Study Duration

Two weeks

Participants

Four quadriplegic patients

Evidence Level

Pilot Study

Key Findings

1
Patients experienced improved PIDA scores or reduced completion times with the customized joysticks, indicating enhanced driving performance.
2
NASA-TLX results showed reduced workload and improved performance when using the customized joysticks.
3
PIADS results indicated increased self-efficacy and decreased negative emotional reactions to disability with the customized joysticks.

Research Summary

This study investigated the use of 3D-printed customized joysticks for power wheelchairs to improve driving performance and satisfaction among quadriplegic patients with severe hand dysfunction. The results indicated that customized joysticks can improve power wheelchair driving abilities and enhance user satisfaction, as measured by PIDA, NASA-TLX, and PIADS. The study suggests that 3D printing technology offers a viable solution for creating personalized assistive devices that cater to the specific needs of individuals with disabilities.

Practical Implications

Personalized Assistive Devices

3D printing allows for the creation of customized assistive devices tailored to individual needs.

Improved Quality of Life

Customized joysticks can enhance mobility and independence for quadriplegic patients, leading to a better quality of life.

Reduced Caregiver Burden

Enhanced control and satisfaction may reduce the reliance on caregivers.

Study Limitations

1
Small sample size
2
Lack of pre-tests for PIADS and NASA-TLX
3
Caregiver satisfaction not evaluated

Your Feedback

Was this summary helpful?

Back to Spinal Cord Injury