M-MARK stroke rehab device: user needs analysis
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Mechanical Muscle Activity with Real-time Kinematics (M-MARK) A novel combination of existing technologies to improve arm recovery following stroke: Phase 1 user needs analysis
IRAS ID
188571
Contact name
Ruth Turk
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University of Southampton
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 2 months, 29 days
Research summary
About 150,000 people in the UK suffer a stroke each year. Of those who have problems with their arm, about 60% don’t get useful recovery. These days most stroke patients leave hospital soon after their stroke and get rehabilitation in their own homes. We know that intensive practice, moving in a natural way, is essential for recovery and the NHS guideline says patients should have 45 minutes therapy 5 days-a-week. Currently, because of the cost and shortage of specialist therapists, many patients don’t get that.
Our device, the ‘M-MARK Mk1’, combines sensors that monitor muscle activity and movement. It has been tested in the laboratory and with people. Our aim is to develop a wearable wireless device (M-MARK Mk2) that will enable patients to practice everyday activities independently at home to help them regain use of their arm and hand. M-MARK Mk2 will give motivating feedback on a computer or tablet, for example as moving pictures of their movement. With more technical feedback it will satisfy the needs of therapists for a simple system to diagnose specific movement problems to help them make decisions about what treatment patients need and monitor progress, so making therapy more efficient and effective.
The purpose of this study is to identify user’s needs to inform the design of Mk2. Ten patients and carers will be interviewed and up to 20 health professionals will take part in focus groups. They will come from Portsmouth and North Bristol NHS Trusts. The idea of the device will be explained to participants using real and paper-based examples, and their needs and opinions will be sought. Participants will be invited to attend a second interview or focus group to try-out and give opinions on mock-ups of the wearable components and computer programme that gives feedback on movement.REC name
South West - Frenchay Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
15/SW/0314
Date of REC Opinion
30 Nov 2015
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion