User-centered design and development of a trunk control device for persons with spinal cord injury: A pilot study

The Journal of Spinal Cord Medicine, 2022 · DOI: 10.1080/10790268.2020.1863897 · Published: July 1, 2022

Spinal Cord Injury Assistive Technology Research Methodology & Design

Simple Explanation

This study addresses the need for devices that allow people with spinal cord injuries to control their trunk posture dynamically. Current wheelchair options do not adequately support forward leaning for functional reach and pressure relief. The researchers gathered input from individuals with spinal cord injuries regarding the features they desired in a trunk control system. This feedback was used to develop a prototype device. The prototype trunk control device was tested by two participants with spinal cord injuries, and its impact on functional reach and pressure relief was measured. User feedback on the device's usability was also collected.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

8 people with spinal cord injuries in focus group, 5 returned for design concept selection, 2 tested prototype

Evidence Level

Pilot study, mixed methods design

Key Findings

1
The trunk control device increased bimanual workspace by 311% in one participant.
2
The trunk control device increased pressure relief during forward lean, with a dispersion index reduction of 87.6% and 27.7% for two participants.
3
Participants indicated that transfer into the trunk control system went smoothly, and they felt secure and comfortable with the harness in a flexed posture.

Research Summary

This pilot study aimed to develop a trunk control device for individuals with spinal cord injuries, focusing on improving functional reach and pressure relief. The study employed a user-centered design approach, incorporating feedback from stakeholders at various stages of development. The first-generation prototype, featuring backpack straps with a single cable, demonstrated promising results in increasing bimanual workspace and pressure relief during forward leaning. Participants provided valuable feedback on the device's usability and potential refinements. The study concludes that the developed trunk control system prototype holds potential for improving the lives of individuals with spinal cord injuries by enhancing their functional capabilities and pressure management strategies.

Practical Implications

Enhanced Functional Independence

The trunk control device can enable individuals with SCI to perform daily tasks more easily, such as cooking or reaching for objects.

Improved Pressure Relief

The device can assist in pressure redistribution, reducing the risk of pressure injuries, a common secondary complication of SCI.

Fall Prevention

The device can increase stability and reduce the risk of falls, a significant concern for wheelchair users with SCI.

Study Limitations

1
The focus group primarily consisted of power wheelchair users, which may have skewed the results towards powered solutions.
2
The pilot testing involved only two participants, each with unique goals, leading to different tests (bimanual workspace and pressure relief) and limiting direct comparisons.
3
The joystick control method was problematic for participants with limited hand function, highlighting the need for hands-free control systems in future designs.

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