Content analysis of specialist interviews during the design of cervical collar devices for elderly patients with central cord syndrome

Abstract

This study aimed to analyze the design of cervical collar devices for elderly patients with central cord syndrome during physical therapy-based rehabilitation and to summarize related patient needs. To design a cervical collar device that met patient needs, a physician and patients who had worn a cervical collar for more than three months were both interviewed to collect opinions from a professional perspective and from user experience. A qualitative analysis of the content of the interview was then conducted to characterize an optimal cervical collar device for elderly patients with central cord syndrome during rehabilitation. The analytical results showed that cervical collar device development should focus on comfort and fixity.