Patient, carer, and staff perceptions of robotics in motor rehabilitation: a systematic review and qualitative meta-synthesis

Abstract

Background In recent years, robotic rehabilitation devices have often been used for motor training. However, to date, no systematic reviews of qualitative studies exploring the end-user experiences of robotic devices in motor rehabilitation have been published. The aim of this study was to review end-users’ (patients, carers and healthcare professionals) experiences with robotic devices in motor rehabilitation, by conducting a systematic review and thematic meta-synthesis of qualitative studies concerning the users’ experiences with such robotic devices. Methods Qualitative studies and mixed-methods studies with a qualitative element were eligible for inclusion. Nine electronic databases were searched from inception to August 2020, supplemented with internet searches and forward and backward citation tracking from the included studies and review articles. Data were synthesised thematically following the Thomas and Harden approach. The CASP Qualitative Checklist was used to assess the quality of the included studies of this review. Results The search strategy identified a total of 13,556 citations and after removing duplicates and excluding citations based on title and abstract, and full text screening, 30 studies were included. All studies were considered of acceptable quality. We developed six analytical themes: logistic barriers; technological challenges; appeal and engagement; supportive interactions and relationships; benefits for physical, psychological, and social function(ing); and expanding and sustaining therapeutic options. Conclusions Despite experiencing technological and logistic challenges, participants found robotic devices acceptable, useful and beneficial (physically, psychologically, and socially), as well as fun and interesting. Having supportive relationships with significant others and positive therapeutic relationships with healthcare staff were considered the foundation for successful rehabilitation and recovery.

Functional recovery priorities and community rehabilitation service preferences of spinal cord injury individuals and caregivers of Chinese ethnicity and cultural background

“…Literature on innovative rehabilitation technology such as virtual reality has shown that it was useful in reducing neuropathic pain ( 29 ), enhancing rehabilitation of upper limb function ( 30 ), balance, motor recovery, as well as helping to improve user morale and participation among individuals with SCI ( 31 ). In a recent systematic review, most rehabilitation service users and caregivers found that the use of robotics in motor rehabilitation were beneficial to the physical, psychological and social well-beings, and it was well-accepted ( 32 ). The availability of smart home technology also tended to increase the independence and quality of life among persons with impairment ( 33 ).…”

Experiences of patients who had a stroke and rehabilitation professionals with upper limb rehabilitation robots: a qualitative systematic review protocol

“…Further, a comprehensive summary of patients' likes, dislikes and preferences for specific upper limb rehabilitation robots is fundamental when outcomes among the types of robots are largely similar. 8 The only systematic review to date that aimed to metasynthesise end-user perceptions of robotics is in motor rehabilitation 20 and provides an early, generic description of the patients', caregivers' and professionals' experiences with rehabilitation robots. In the review by Laparidou et al, an overview of all types of motor rehabilitation using rehabilitation robots for various clinical conditions (shoulder instability/rotator cuff injury, spinal cord injury, stroke, brain injury, cerebral palsy and unspecified clinical conditions) of all ages (from five to 84 years of age) is provided.…”

“…In the review by Laparidou et al , an overview of all types of motor rehabilitation using rehabilitation robots for various clinical conditions (shoulder instability/rotator cuff injury, spinal cord injury, stroke, brain injury, cerebral palsy and unspecified clinical conditions) of all ages (from five to 84 years of age) is provided. 20 This review’s inclusion of participants with varied clinical presentations offers valuable insight into their generalised experiences with rehabilitation robots. However, as the review focuses on a broad clinical group, it fails to provide a comprehensive focus and in-depth description of rehabilitation robots’ use in adult patients with stroke.…”

“…The only systematic review to date that aimed to meta-synthesise end-user perceptions of robotics is in motor rehabilitation20 and provides an early, generic description of the patients’, caregivers’ and professionals’ experiences with rehabilitation robots. In the review by Laparidou et al , an overview of all types of motor rehabilitation using rehabilitation robots for various clinical conditions (shoulder instability/rotator cuff injury, spinal cord injury, stroke, brain injury, cerebral palsy and unspecified clinical conditions) of all ages (from five to 84 years of age) is provided 20. This review’s inclusion of participants with varied clinical presentations offers valuable insight into their generalised experiences with rehabilitation robots.…”

Stroke survivor perceptions of using an exoskeleton during acute gait rehabilitation

“…Stakeholders’ perceptions of robotics in motor rehabilitation are reported by qualitative meta-synthesis, to be generally acceptable, useful and beneficial (physically, psychologically, and socially) in rehabilitation 20 . However, this review included only one qualitative study specifically focussed on gait rehabilitation after stroke 21 , including only individuals in the chronic phase of stroke.…”