Accepted for/Published in: JMIR Rehabilitation and Assistive Technologies
Date Submitted: Jul 9, 2024
Date Accepted: Nov 6, 2024
Professionals’ perspectives of smart stationary bikes in rehabilitation: A qualitative study
ABSTRACT
Background:
Stationary bikes are used in numerous rehabilitation settings with most offering limited functionalities and types of training. Smart technologies, such as artificial intelligence and robotics, bring new possibilities to achieve rehabilitation goals. However, it is important that these technologies meet the needs of users in order to improve their adoption in current practice.
Objective:
The present study aimed to collect professionals’ perspectives on the use of smart stationary bikes in rehabilitation.
Methods:
Twelve health professionals (43.4 years old (sd:10.1)) completed an online questionnaire and participated in a semi-structured interview regarding their needs and expectations before and after a 30-minute session with a smart bike prototype.
Results:
A content analysis was performed with inductive coding. Seven main themes emerged: 1) bike functionalities (cycling assistance, asymmetric resistance, forward and backward cycling), 2) interface between bike and users (simple, user-friendly, personalized, with written reminders during training), 3) feedback to users (user and performance data) 4) training programs (pre-programmed and personalized, and algorithmic programs), 5) user engagement (tele-rehabilitation, group sessions, music, automatic suggestion of training), 6) the bike as a physical device (dimensions, comfort, set-up, screen…) and 7) business model (various pricing strategies, training for professionals, after-sales service).
Conclusions:
This study provides an interpretive understanding of professionals’ perspectives regarding smart stationary bikes and is the first to identify the expectations of health professionals regarding the development of future bikes in rehabilitation. Clinical Trial: The research project was approved by the Ethics Review Board on Rehabilitation and Physical Disability of the CIUSSS du Centre-Sud-de-l'Île-de-Montréal (CCSMTL) (# 2023-1697).
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