ORIGINAL: Limitations to the Implementation of a Robotic Rehabilitation Programme for Stroke Survivors in Nigeria

West Afr J Med. June 2025; 42(6):452-456 PMID: 41252638

Abstract

Background: Stroke remains one of the leading causes of disability worldwide. Arm function recovery is essential for stroke survivors' ability to perform activities associated with daily living. Consequently, impairment in arm function is a significant target for stroke survivors' physical or robotic rehabilitation. This study aims to explore the barriers and facilitators to the implementation of a robotic rehabilitation programme for stroke survivors in a resource-poor setting.

Methods: A cross-sectional design with a qualitative approach was chosen. A semi-structured, interview-based questionnaire was administered and data were collected from stroke survivors presenting at the adult neurology clinic of two tertiary institutions in Nigeria. Data from the interview-based questionnaire were analyzed using descriptive statistics.

Results: A total of 52 stroke survivors participated and were interviewed. More than half (55.8%) of the respondents were elderly, with a male-to-female ratio of 1.6:1. Majority of respondents (58%) had no idea about the use of robotics for stroke rehabilitation. About 44% of the respondents believe that the major determinant of interest in robotics will be favourable outcome after trials on other participants. Lack of financial support and transportation aid constitute barriers, while creation of awareness and the availability of transportation aid from home to hospital were the major facilitators to participation.

Conclusion: These findings highlight the fact that most stroke survivors in the resource-poor setting were not aware of the usefulness of robotics in stroke rehabilitation. Hence, increasing knowledge and creating awareness about robotic rehabilitation will make it more readily acceptable for stroke survivors. KEYWORDS: Barrier, Facilitator, Robotic rehabilitation, Stroke survivors, Implementation.