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Exploratory study of perceived quality of life with implanted standing neuroprostheses. Loretta M. Rohde, PT, DPT; Bette R. Bonder, PhD, OTR/L; Ronald J. Triolo, PhD. Aim
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Exploratory study of perceived quality of life with implanted standing neuroprostheses Loretta M. Rohde, PT, DPT; Bette R. Bonder, PhD, OTR/L; Ronald J. Triolo, PhD
Aim • Determine whether Case Western Reserve University-Department of Veterans Affairs (CWRU-VA) implanted 8-channel standing and transfer neuroprosthesis improved quality of life (QOL) for individuals with spinal cord injury (SCI). • Relevance • Interventions that decrease barriers to mobility and participation can significantly affect perceived QOL.
Methods • Conducted Qualitative research methodology: • Series of semistructured interviews (17 discussion questions). • Two investigators • Reviewed interview transcripts. • Organized similar responses into 11 themes.
Results: Themes • Increased QOL. • Improved health status. • Decreased spasticity. • Improved psychological/emotional well-being. • Value/worth. • Increased mobility. • Increased function in leisure/social settings. • Being more “normal” or “more like others.” • Ease of activities of daily living/decreased need for caregivers. • Enhanced ability to work. • No quick fix.
Conclusions • Based on data collected, using CWRU-VA 8-channel implanted neuroprosthesis for exercise, standing, and transfers affected the participants’ perceptions of QOL. • Primarily beneficial effects.