Editorial: Advances in technology-assisted rehabilitation

Front. Rehabil. Sci., 2024 · DOI: 10.3389/fresc.2024.1465671 · Published: August 6, 2024

Simple Explanation

This editorial discusses the increasing need for technology-assisted rehabilitation due to a growing global population with disabilities and chronic diseases. It highlights how technology can aid rehabilitation by supporting therapists and directly assisting individuals with motor impairments. The editorial also addresses the challenges in translating technological innovations into widespread clinical practice, particularly in low- and middle-income countries.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

89 authors (30% female) from 41 institutions across 6 countries

Evidence Level

Editorial

Key Findings

1
Pattern recognition systems for upper limb prostheses control improved with 16 EMG channels compared to 8.
2
Individual tuning of powered prosthetic feet using real-time biomechanical data can improve gait quality.
3
Bone-anchored prostheses are cost-effective for individuals facing challenges with socket-suspension systems.

Research Summary

This editorial introduces a research topic focused on technology-assisted rehabilitation, addressing a wide spectrum of topics from technology development to health-economic research. It summarizes the contributions of 16 papers, including original research articles, literature reviews, and policy and practice reviews, covering areas like prosthetics, orthotics, and ethical considerations. The editorial emphasizes the necessity of high-quality clinical trials to promote widespread adoption and acceptance of technology-assisted rehabilitation innovations as standard of care.

Practical Implications

Clinical Practice

Highlights the need for clinicians to consider individual differences in motor learning when using technology-assisted rehabilitation.

Policy and Research

Emphasizes the importance of conducting high-quality research and health economic evaluations to support the adoption of assistive technologies.

Product Development

Encourages researchers and clinicians to engage in product development and generate evidence for innovations in technology-assisted rehabilitation.

Study Limitations

1
Limited translation of technological innovations into rehabilitation settings.
2
Resistance among healthcare providers to adopt assistive technologies.
3
Scarcity of high-quality research on clinical outcomes and realistic health economic evaluations.

Your Feedback

Was this summary helpful?

Back to Assistive Technology