Development of a self-guided web-based exercise intervention (SPIN) to treat shoulder pain in people living with spinal cord injury: protocol of a mixed methods study

BMJ Open, 2019 · DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2019-031012 · Published: September 1, 2019

Spinal Cord Injury Rehabilitation Telehealth & Digital Health

Simple Explanation

This study aims to develop a web-based exercise program (SPIN) for people with spinal cord injury (SCI) who experience shoulder pain. The program will be self-guided, allowing users to do exercises at their own pace and convenience, with minimal contact from healthcare professionals. The development process involves gathering feedback from potential users through focus groups and think-aloud sessions to ensure the program is acceptable, usable, and effective.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

Up to n=20 participants in the planning phase and up to 10 participants in the development phase. Participants will be people living with SCI.

Evidence Level

Not specified

Key Findings

1
The study will identify key elements for an effective web-based exercise intervention through systematic and narrative reviews of existing literature.
2
User perspectives will be captured using a person-based approach (PBA) to tailor the intervention to their needs and increase engagement.
3
The iterative refinement process will involve focus groups and think-aloud sessions to improve the prototype's usability and acceptability.

Research Summary

This study protocol outlines the development of a self-guided, web-based exercise intervention (SPIN) for treating shoulder pain in people with spinal cord injury (SCI). The intervention will be developed using a person-based approach, incorporating user feedback and evidence from systematic and narrative reviews. The study includes planning, design, and development phases, with iterative refinement through focus groups and think-aloud sessions to ensure usability and acceptability.

Practical Implications

Improved Accessibility

Web-based intervention can overcome barriers to accessing exercise and rehabilitation opportunities, such as limited access to knowledgeable health professionals and transportation difficulties.

Personalized Support

The interactive tool can provide automated and remote personalized feedback and support for self-guided exercise.

Increased Engagement

The person-based approach may increase the likelihood of engagement and usability of the intervention.

Study Limitations

1
Budgetary restraints may limit the degree of intervention refinement possible.
2
The study is limited to participants residing in New Zealand.
3
The intervention requires a level of comfort interacting with the prototype.

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