Disability and Rehabilitation-Assistive Technology最新文献

{"title":"Proximal hamstring tendinopathy as a cause of ischial pain in a wheelchair user with multiple sclerosis: the diagnostic value of dynamic seating assessment-a case report.","authors":"Romain Champagne, Solenn Le Sager, Josselin Demas, Mickael Dinomais, Pauline Ali","doi":"10.1080/17483107.2026.2741508","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1080/17483107.2026.2741508","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Objective: </strong>We report the case of a 73-year-old man with advanced multiple sclerosis who developed right ischial pain while seated in a manual wheelchair, despite pressure overload being documented on the left.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>The patient used right-hand and right-foot propulsion for indoor mobility. Static and dynamic postural analysis revealed fixed asymmetries, while clinical examination reproduced the pain during resisted knee flexion and passive hamstring stretch. A diagnosis of right proximal hamstring tendinopathy was made, attributed to repeated contractions during foot propulsion. To our knowledge, no previously published cases were identified of this complication in a wheelchair user. Two postural correction attempts were unsuccessful. Pain resolved completely after transitioning to a power wheelchair and stopping foot propulsion.</p><p><strong>Impact: </strong>This case highlights an underrecognized musculoskeletal complication in wheelchair users and demonstrates the importance of an interdisciplinary approach combining pressure mapping, dynamic seating analysis, and clinical examination, integrating medical diagnostics with occupational therapy expertise in equipment optimisation. It also underlines the psychological benefit of providing a clear explanation and effective solution, which improved patient adherence and satisfaction. The patient reported no desire to return to manual propulsion.</p>","PeriodicalId":47806,"journal":{"name":"Disability and Rehabilitation-Assistive Technology","volume":" ","pages":"1-8"},"PeriodicalIF":2.1,"publicationDate":"2026-10-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"149116462","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Impact of adapted folk games on activity and participation in individuals with cerebral palsy - an exploratory proof of concept study.","authors":"Mansoor Rahman A, Jagadish Kumar, Kavitha Raja","doi":"10.1080/17483107.2026.2667442","DOIUrl":"10.1080/17483107.2026.2667442","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Purpose: </strong>This exploratory study aimed to evaluate the feasibility and preliminary impact of adapted traditional Indian folk games on physical activity (PA) and participation in individuals with cerebral palsy (CP) in low-resource settings.</p><p><strong>Materials and methods: </strong>A two-phase exploratory design was employed. Phase I involved the systematic adaptation of traditional games (e.g. <i>THOTTATUM, GUTTE</i>) using the CHANGE IT framework, tailoring equipment and rules to functional levels (GMFCS I-IV). In Phase II, 36 participants with CP (GMFCS I-IV) underwent a structured intervention using these adapted games. Outcome measures included are Brockport Physical Fitness [BPFT], Gross Motor Function Measure 88 and a functional HRQoL questionnaire covering physical, emotional, social, and school domains.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>Post-intervention analysis of the total cohort showed significant improvements in handgrip strength and skinfold measurement. Significant positive shifts were observed in HRQoL domains, specifically physical (<i>p</i> < 0.05), emotional (<i>p</i> < 0.05), and school functioning. Qualitative feedback from parents and teachers corroborated these findings, noting improved activities of daily living (e.g. buttoning, brushing) and social interaction. Subgroup analysis indicated that while all levels benefitted, those at GMFCS Levels I-III showed the most pronounced gains in motor-related tasks.</p><p><strong>Conclusions: </strong>Adapted traditional folk games serve as a feasible, culturally relevant, and cost-effective form of assistive technology and rehabilitation. This approach effectively bridges the gap in accessible physical education for individuals with CP in Low and Middle Income Countries (LMIC's), providing a scalable model for inclusive activity and participation.</p>","PeriodicalId":47806,"journal":{"name":"Disability and Rehabilitation-Assistive Technology","volume":" ","pages":"3758-3771"},"PeriodicalIF":2.1,"publicationDate":"2026-10-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"147844105","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Enhancing photographic AAC displays for children with cortical visual impairment: foundations for accessible design and implementation.","authors":"Kevin Pitt, Jamie B Boster, Keaton Underwood, Amber Thiessen","doi":"10.1080/17483107.2026.2662436","DOIUrl":"10.1080/17483107.2026.2662436","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Purpose: </strong>Photographic AAC displays, such as visual scene displays, are gaining recognition as a valuable tool in augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) for their capacity to incorporate familiar objects and contextually rich images that enhance communication. However, it is possible the complexity of some photographic AAC displays may unintentionally obstruct communication for those with cortical visual impairment (CVI) rather than support it. Therefore, investigating design principles that reduce complexity, and foster engagement could improve the effectiveness of photographic AAC displays for children with CVI.</p><p><strong>Materials and methods: </strong>This perspectives paper hopes to lay a foundation for enhancing photographs for those with CVI, discussing strategies to modify photographs to possibly help improve visual accessibility and engagement.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>Key approaches discussed include considering a) the number of photographic elements and item spacing, b) adjustments to contrast, including brightness, and colour saturation, c) outlining, and d) familiarity, object size, and visual field preferences. This perspectives paper also considers just-in-time (JIT) programming applications for individuals with CVI, providing examples of potential photographic manipulations to explore the feasibility of applying these modifications to real-life photographs.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>By addressing the unique visual processing challenges associated with CVI, these strategies offer a foundation for interdisciplinary collaboration and help serve as a starting point for comprehensively evaluating how various photographic design factors influence AAC outcomes, ultimately supporting improved communication and literacy for this population.</p>","PeriodicalId":47806,"journal":{"name":"Disability and Rehabilitation-Assistive Technology","volume":" ","pages":"3934-3951"},"PeriodicalIF":2.1,"publicationDate":"2026-10-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"147785758","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Managing physical activity through voice: a usability study of the PCHA app with blind and low-vision individuals.","authors":"Soyoung Choi, JooYoung Seo, Ashwath Krishnan, Sanchita Kamath, Manuel Enrique Hernandez, Spyros Kitsiou","doi":"10.1080/17483107.2026.2663134","DOIUrl":"10.1080/17483107.2026.2663134","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background: </strong>While mobile health (mHealth) technologies can support individuals' physical activity management, they often present accessibility barriers for blind and low-vision (BLV) users. To address this gap, we developed the Personalised and Conversational Health Agent (PCHA) app for BLV users.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>We conducted a 7-day usability study with six BLV adults. Data were collected on physical activity indicators (daily step counts and walking distance), System Usability Scale (SUS) scores, and qualitative feedback from semi-structured exit interviews.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>The PCHA app achieved a mean SUS score of 77.1, with ratings ranging from \"Okay\" to \"Excellent.\" Participants valued the app's streamlined interface and reminder system but expressed mixed preferences for voice versus text-based data input. The AI-based chat feature demonstrated limited engagement, with participants reporting generic responses that reduced its perceived utility. The physical activity data revealed highly variable patterns, influenced by personal and contextual factors, and technical issues such as incomplete data synchronisation.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>Voice interfaces offer important accessibility benefits but should complement screen reader-based interactions. Further improvements should include multi-modal interaction options, improved technical reliability, and adaptive personalisation features that account for individual circumstances and preferences. These findings provide design insights for advancing inclusive mHealth interventions to better support physical activity management among BLV individuals.</p>","PeriodicalId":47806,"journal":{"name":"Disability and Rehabilitation-Assistive Technology","volume":" ","pages":"3672-3684"},"PeriodicalIF":2.1,"publicationDate":"2026-10-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"147822216","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Independence, inclusion, and uncertainty: voices of caregivers of youth with CHARGE syndrome on assistive technology and virtual reality.","authors":"Pamela Beach, Samantha Leung, Afeez Hazzan, Lauren Lieberman, Nicole Ness","doi":"10.1080/17483107.2026.2667443","DOIUrl":"10.1080/17483107.2026.2667443","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Purpose: </strong>Family caregivers play a critical role in supporting youth with CHARGE syndrome, yet little is known about how they perceive and evaluate emerging assistive technologies such as virtual reality. This study explored caregiver perspectives to better understand how technology is conceptualised, the types of exposure families have experienced, and the perceived benefits and concerns that shape adoption.</p><p><strong>Materials and methods: </strong>Semi‑structured interviews were conducted with thirteen caregivers of young adults with CHARGE syndrome during the 16th International CHARGE Syndrome Conference in July 2025. Using qualitative descriptive methodology, transcripts were analysed to identify themes related to caregiver decision‑making, sensory and physical considerations, and the broader context in which assistive technology use is negotiated.</p><p><strong>Findings: </strong>Caregivers described assistive technology in diverse ways, ranging from \"fake\" or entertainment‑based to culturally enriching and potentially educational. Most reported limited exposure, often through arcades or school programs, which shaped cautious attitudes towards adoption. While caregivers anticipated benefits such as increased independence, skill‑building, and social participation, they also expressed concerns about sensory overload, headset comfort, cost, and accessibility. Decision‑making was influenced by practical constraints, philosophical beliefs, and the perceived balance between caregiver burden and child autonomy.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>Findings highlight the complexity of caregiver perspectives on assistive technology for youth with CHARGE syndrome. Understanding how caregivers conceptualise, experience, and weigh benefits against concerns can inform the design and dissemination of technologies that are responsive to family needs. These insights provide a foundation for future research and development aimed at enhancing accessibility and supporting caregiver decision‑making.</p>","PeriodicalId":47806,"journal":{"name":"Disability and Rehabilitation-Assistive Technology","volume":" ","pages":"3772-3783"},"PeriodicalIF":2.1,"publicationDate":"2026-10-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"147844094","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Geometrical and inertial characteristics of manual wheelchairs: a comprehensive dataset.","authors":"Yoann Poulet, Jade Loisel, Hélène Pillet, Joseph Bascou, Christophe Sauret","doi":"10.1080/17483107.2026.2668018","DOIUrl":"10.1080/17483107.2026.2668018","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p><b><i>Purpose</i></b>: Accurate geometrical and inertial properties of manual wheelchairs (MWC) are essential for their modelling in theoretical and numerical studies. However, the scarcity of such data in the literature limits model quality and restricts customisation. The purpose of this paper is to establish a reference dataset of geometrical and inertial properties for everyday and sports MWC, both at system and component levels. <b><i>Material and methods</i></b>: A total of 61 MWCs of different types (standard, active, and sport-specific), 18 rear wheels (everyday use, court sports (non-carbon), tennis (carbon), racing, and motorised), 12 caster wheels and 12 caster forks were tested. Custom-built measurement tools were used to determine geometrical and inertial parameters, including mass, 3D centre of mass location, and yaw mass moment of inertia. Average parameters of the MWC frame and body support system were then estimated by subtracting the contributions of individual components from the overall MWC measurements. <b><i>Results</i></b>: Measurements resulted in the development of a reference dataset containing average parameters of each MWC type and each component tested. <b><i>Conclusion</i></b>: This dataset supports system-level modelling of MWC while also allowing for settings changes using component-level data. It provides researchers with valuable reference data, particularly for those lacking access to a wide range of MWCs or to specialised measurement tools.</p>","PeriodicalId":47806,"journal":{"name":"Disability and Rehabilitation-Assistive Technology","volume":" ","pages":"3973-3992"},"PeriodicalIF":2.1,"publicationDate":"2026-10-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"147870125","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Perceptions of artificial intelligence in healthcare and rehabilitation: a qualitative study on insights from medical officers and physical therapists in Pakistan.","authors":"Etisam Wahid, Shahzad Ahmad, Muhammad Sanan Khan, Nimrah Humayoon, Muneeb Anwar","doi":"10.1080/17483107.2026.2666389","DOIUrl":"10.1080/17483107.2026.2666389","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>Background: In healthcare and rehabilitation, artificial intelligence (AI) is being widely used in assistive devices, administration, and diagnostic support. There is, however, little data on how healthcare workers in low-resource environments understand and view the use of AI, especially in different professional groups engaging in clinical decision-making and rehabilitation.</p><p><p>Objective: The objective of this study was to explore the knowledge, awareness, and perceptions of medical officers (MOs) and physical therapists (PTs) on the application of artificial intelligence (AI) in healthcare and rehabilitation.</p><p><p>Methods: An exploratory qualitative study was conducted utilising semi-structured interviews with 40 clinicians (20 MOs and 20 PTs) selected through purposive sampling from major public and private hospitals in Peshawar. Interviews were performed both in person and online; audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim; and analysed using inductive theme analysis using Braun and Clarke's methodology.</p><p><p>Results: Five interrelated themes were identified: fundamental knowledge of AI, awareness of therapeutic applications, perceived positive outcomes, ethical and pragmatic concerns, and limitations to integration. PTs were more familiar with the application of AI in assistive robotic technology, while MOs prioritised AI usage for the purpose of diagnosis and administration work. Both groups viewed AI as a useful technology to improve clinical decision-making and workplace efficiency, while both groups raised concerns regarding data privacy, autonomy, lack of formal training, and realistic application in the local context.</p><p><p>Conclusion: MOs and PTs in KP were cautiously optimistic about the application of AI in healthcare and rehabilitation, with significant concerns formed by ethical, educational, and technical limitations.</p>","PeriodicalId":47806,"journal":{"name":"Disability and Rehabilitation-Assistive Technology","volume":" ","pages":"3747-3757"},"PeriodicalIF":2.1,"publicationDate":"2026-10-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"147785820","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Expanding the lens on objective assessments for walking aid prescription: a call for inclusive, longitudinal, and contextualized research.","authors":"Efrem Kentiba, Rediet Emiru, Desta Galcha Gerbu, Alemayehu Shanko Zena, Hiyawan Emiru","doi":"10.1080/17483107.2026.2676034","DOIUrl":"10.1080/17483107.2026.2676034","url":null,"abstract":"","PeriodicalId":47806,"journal":{"name":"Disability and Rehabilitation-Assistive Technology","volume":" ","pages":"4071-4073"},"PeriodicalIF":2.1,"publicationDate":"2026-10-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"148018253","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Assistive communication technologies for individuals with multiple disabilities: an evidence mapping review informing future AI-enabled AAC.","authors":"Emrah Marul","doi":"10.1080/17483107.2026.2682413","DOIUrl":"10.1080/17483107.2026.2682413","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Objective: </strong>Assistive communication technologies are central to participation for individuals with multiple disabilities. Although artificial intelligence (AI) functionalities are increasingly proposed within augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) systems, empirical evidence for this population remains critically limited. This evidence mapping review synthesised research on aided AAC interventions involving individuals with multiple disabilities to identify technological trends, implementation patterns, and evidence gaps relevant to the future development of AI-enabled AAC systems.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>Guided by PRISMA-ScR procedures, 36 peer-reviewed studies published between 1987 and 2025 involving individuals with co-occurring sensory, motor, and/or intellectual impairments were synthesised. Inter-coder reliability was strong (κ = 0.84). Structured coding and effect-direction mapping were used to identify technology modalities, implementation characteristics, and five recurring evidence patterns across the literature. Single-case experimental designs predominated (<i>n</i> = 14; 39%), and school-aged participants represented the largest group (44%).</p><p><strong>Impact: </strong>No studies directly evaluated AI-enabled AAC interventions, revealing a critical innovation-to-evidence gap. Communication outcomes were most strongly associated with modality-learner compatibility, multimodal access, and partner-mediated interaction rather than technological sophistication. Findings indicate that AI should be conceptualised as an adaptive support layer embedded within human-mediated communication systems rather than as an autonomous agent. These findings have direct implications for clinicians, assistive technology developers, and policymakers and provide a principled foundation for the responsible and equitable development of AI-enabled AAC systems.</p>","PeriodicalId":47806,"journal":{"name":"Disability and Rehabilitation-Assistive Technology","volume":" ","pages":"3537-3558"},"PeriodicalIF":2.1,"publicationDate":"2026-10-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"148279253","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Policy-practice gap: a document analysis of assistive technology access for pupils with disabilities in Tanzania.","authors":"Josephine Wilfred Ogondiek","doi":"10.1080/17483107.2026.2683132","DOIUrl":"10.1080/17483107.2026.2683132","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Aim: </strong>This study examines the gap between policy commitment and practical implementation of assistive technology (AT) in Tanzania's education sector, where significant barriers continue to affect the availability, accessibility, and usability of AT for learners with disabilities. The study aims to identify policy-related challenges and propose strategies for strengthening AT implementation to support inclusive education.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>A qualitative document analysis was conducted using key national policies, strategies, legislation, and official reports related to disability, education, and assistive technology in Tanzania. The documents were systematically reviewed to identify strengths, gaps, and implementation challenges across major policy dimensions influencing AT provision and utilization.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>The analysis revealed significant systemic barriers across five key dimensions: AT scope, implementation planning, funding, training, and monitoring. Findings indicate recurring structural constraints, including outdated policy frameworks, the absence of enforceable mandates, inadequate financing mechanisms, high costs associated with import dependence, and persistent urban-rural disparities in AT access. Although recent developments, particularly the National Assistive Technology Strategy, demonstrate progress toward strengthening AT provision, critical gaps remain in sustainable financing, institutional coordination, capacity building, and accountability mechanisms.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>Bridging the gap between policy intent and practice requires comprehensive system-level reforms. The study recommends establishing a dedicated AT fund, promoting local production through targeted incentives, integrating AT into teacher education and professional development programs, developing a national monitoring and tracking system, and strengthening public-private partnerships to improve affordability and availability. By linking policy analysis to actionable strategies, the study provides a structured pathway for bridging the gap between policy intent and practice, contributing to more inclusive education systems and advancing alignment with international commitments, including the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD).</p>","PeriodicalId":47806,"journal":{"name":"Disability and Rehabilitation-Assistive Technology","volume":" ","pages":"3559-3572"},"PeriodicalIF":2.1,"publicationDate":"2026-10-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"148151706","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}