Assessing User Experience with Crutch Use

Abstract

Usability and human-product interaction experience are of great importance when evaluating the current design and future improvements of any product. This literature review examines the current research being conducted on consumer experience with crutch use and identifies key elements related to this topic. A brief overview of product conceptualization regarding crutch design is provided including reports and studies addressing medical conditions resulting from crutch use. After assistive technology and patterns of crutch use are addressed, reports of discomforts and impedances pertaining to user experience are outlined. These usability and interaction topics inform the final discussion — a proposed research study on the subject of consumer experience with crutches is described in relation to focusing on user experience with mobility-related assistive technology devices and possible crutch design interventions.

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