No abstract

This study assessed the functional priorities of those with neuromuscular disorders. Although such individuals can experience a range of weakness in the upper and/or lower extremities, common functional priorities were reported: independence with mobility, transfers, toilet use and hygiene. Knowledge of these priorities will help guide development of assistive devices that will restore function in the future. Implications for Rehabilitation     Neuromuscular Disorders  • Neuromuscular disorders result in disabling weakness; there are few cures and many are unable to carry out activities of daily living.  • Information that would be helpful in determining functional priorities is limited.  • In a survey of 171 patients with neuromuscular disorders, functional priorities included mobility and transfers (46%), followed by toilet use and hygiene (32%).  • Of the respondents with weakness in both the upper and lower extremities, 45% stated that if they had to choose between correction of one or the other, they would prefer that of their lower extremities.  • If an assistive device were to be created to help those with neuromuscular disorders, the most popular control mechanism would be voice activation (35%).

ii To my friends and family whom have given me never-ending support while in pursuit of a personal dream.iii ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS