The primary aim of this study was to investigate if SDO® combined- with the GripAble™ device increases repetitive practice and engagement in UL rehabilitation in PwS living in the community.
Objectives: 1) To assess differences in rehabilitation intensity between participants with GripAble™ plus SDO® compared to GripAble™ alone. 2) To evaluate the acceptability and usability of GripAble™ by PwS in the community. 3) To provide feasibility data to inform a future study.
Evaluative pilot study. We recruited PwS through Bristol After Stroke. Participants were randomised into two groups and received intervention for 4 weeks: (1) GripAble™ alone; (2) GripAble™ with SDO®. Standardised outcome measures (OM) recommended in stroke research were used. The Technology Acceptance Model questionnaire was used for acceptability.
Over eight months, 52 PwS were approached, 35% (n=18) expressed interest, of which 56% (n=10) were recruited. Retention at 4 weeks was 80% (n=8). All participants could complete majority of the OM’s. GripAbleTM data was available for seven participants. In group one, 75% (n=3/4) and in group two, 100% (n=3/3) of participants met the goal of 300 repetitions on days they engaged with GripAbleTM Overall acceptability of GripAbleTM was 71%, however 63% (n=5) experienced problems with the device.
Due to small sample size, conclusions could not be drawn on the combined effect of GripAbleTM and SDO®. GripAble™ was acceptable by PwS, however, digital challenges warrant further investigation.
- GripAbleTM devices could be a promising intervention to improve UL rehabilitation intensity for PwS living in the community
- SDO® sleeves did not influence rehabilitation intensity or engagement with GripAbleTM devices.
- Variance in digital literacy of participants may have affected engagement with GripAbleTM devices. Additional training and education materials may provide improved accessibility and usability in future research.
Upper Limb recovery
GripAble device
