Orthotics for knee instability (OKIS)
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Orthotic management of instability of the knee in neuromuscular disease
IRAS ID
155638
Contact name
Catriona McDaid
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University of York
Research summary
This interview study is one component of a larger project investigating management of instability of the knee in people with neuromuscular diseases (such as polio, or diseases of central nervous origin) through the use of orthotic devices, sometimes called braces or callipers. Currently, very little is known about which devices are in use in the NHS, their costs and effectiveness. The overall aims of the study will be met through a systematic review of the literature on effectiveness, a survey of orthotists and physiotherapists working in the NHS, and the interview study described here.
To date, hardly any research has been conducted with people who receive orthotic devices as treatment. However, it is important to understand patients’ perceptions of the impact of these devices on their physical, psychological and social health and functioning. We also want to include patients' assessments of their adherence to treatment and satisfaction, and to learn more about their views of different aspects of their treatment.
Our interview study aims to address these issues by inviting 25-30 people to take part in a one-to-one interview with a researcher, or in a focus group discussion. We wish to talk to people with a range of views and experiences, and therefore will seek to recruit people (aged 16 years and older) to reflect different conditions, age, sex, length of time fitted with an orthotic device, high and low usage, and living in different regions of England. Interviews and focus groups will take place over a period of about 8 months, at a time and in a venue that is convenient for patients. NHS clinicians (who are part of the study team) will assist with recruitment; in addition, we may also recruit participants from outside NHS settings, via contacts with national charities, such as Muscular Dystrophy Campaign.
REC name
London - Camden & Kings Cross Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
14/LO/1132
Date of REC Opinion
18 Jun 2014
REC opinion
Favourable Opinion