Identifying priorities for balance interventions through a participatory co-design approach with end-users

This study explores the views of individuals with spinal cord injuries/diseases (SCI/D) or stroke, physical therapists, and hospital administrators on balance interventions and technologies, particularly those involving functional electrical stimulation (FES) and visual feedback training. The goal is to understand what these end-users prioritize in balance interventions to improve the design of such interventions and make them more useful and feasible in clinical settings. The study uses focus group meetings to gather detailed qualitative data about their experiences with balance deficits, rehabilitation, and FES, to guide the development of effective balance interventions.

• 1
  Balance is considered essential for daily life and rehabilitation, with participants emphasizing the importance of continued balance work even after hospital discharge.
• 2
  Participants desired balance interventions that are tailored to individual needs and goals, engaging, relevant to their lives, and carefully balance safety with the need for challenge.
• 3
  While initially apprehensive, participants reported numerous benefits from FES, though challenges such as wires, cost, and setup time were also noted.