BACKGROUND
Low Back Pain (LBP) is a costly global health condition that impacts individuals of all ages and genders. Physical therapy (PT) is a commonly used and effective intervention for the management of LBP and incorporates movement assessment and therapeutic exercise. A newly developed wearable fabric-based sensor system, Motion Tape, is a technology that uses novel sensing and data modeling to measure lumbar spine movements unobtrusively and thus offers potential benefits when used in conjunction with PT. However, physical therapist acceptance of Motion Tape remains unexplored.
OBJECTIVE
The primary purpose of this research study was to evaluate physical therapist acceptance of Motion Tape to be used for the management of LBP. The secondary purpose was to explore physical therapists’ recommendations for future device development.
METHODS
Licensed physical therapists from the American Physical Therapy Association Academy of Leadership Technology Special Interest Group participated. Two focus groups (N=8 total participants) were conducted where participants were presented with Motion Tape samples and examples of application data output on a poster. Informed by the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM), semi-structured focus groups were conducted and explored wearability, usefulness, ease of use, and suggestions for improvements in Motion Tape for PT management of LBP. Focus group data were transcribed and analyzed using Rapid Qualitative Analysis.
RESULTS
For wearability, participants believed the Motion Tape could adhere for several days, with some variability due to external factors. Feedback was positive on the low-profile and universal fit, but discomfort due to wires and potential friction with clothing were of concern. Other concerns included difficulty with self-application and potential skin sensitivity. For usefulness, participants expressed that Motion Tape would enhance efficiency and specificity of assessments and treatment. For ease of use, participants stated that the application would be easy, but data management and challenges with interpretation were of concern. Physical therapists provided several recommendations for future design improvements including having a wireless system or removable wires, customizable sizes for tape, output including range of motion data and summary graphs, and adding application features that consider patient input and context.
CONCLUSIONS
Several themes relating to Motion Tape's wearability, usefulness, and ease of use were identified. Overall, physical therapists expressed acceptance for Motion Tape's potential for assessing and monitoring low back posture and movement, both within and outside clinical settings. Participants expressed that Motion Tape would be a valuable tool for personalized treatment of LBP, but highlighted several future improvements needed for Motion Tape to be used in practice.
CLINICALTRIAL
Not applicable