Clinician Perceptions of Robotic Exoskeletons for Locomotor Training After Spinal Cord Injury: A Qualitative Approach.

Objective: To describe the experiences of clinicians who have used robotic exoskeletons in their practice and acquire information that can guide clinical decisions and training strategies related to robotic exoskeletons.

Design: Qualitative, online survey study, and 4 single-session focus groups followed by thematic analysis to define themes.

Setting: Focus groups were conducted at 3 regional rehabilitation hospitals and 1 Veteran's Administration (VA) Medical Center.

Users with spinal cord injury experience of robotic Locomotor exoskeletons: a qualitative study of the benefits, limitations, and recommendations.

Background: Persons with spinal cord injury (SCI) may experience both psychological and physiological benefits from robotic locomotor exoskeleton use, and knowledgeable users may have valuable perspectives to inform future development. The objective of this study is to gain insight into the experiences, perspectives, concerns, and suggestions on the use of robotic locomotor exoskeletons by civilians and veterans living with SCI.

Methods: Participants reported their demographic characteristics and the extent of robotic exoskeleton use in an online survey.

Appraisals of robotic locomotor exoskeletons for gait: focus group insights from potential users with spinal cord injuries.

To describe appraisals of robotic exoskeletons for locomotion by potential users with spinal cord injuries, their perceptions of device benefits and limitations, and recommendations for manufacturers and therapists regarding device use. We conducted focus groups at three regional rehabilitation hospitals and used thematic analysis to define themes. Across four focus groups, 35 adults participated; they were predominantly middle-aged, male, and diverse in terms of race and ethnicity, well educated, and not working.