Chances and Risks of Using Robotic Assistance Systems in Early Neurological Rehabilitation: A Qualitative Analysis.

Robotic assistance systems offer new therapeutic perspectives for patient mobilization. This work aims to investigate the chances and risks of robotic assistance systems in early neurological rehabilitation. Nine professionals working in physiotherapy and nursing were interviewed on their opinion on robotic assistance systems. The experts were recruited in three different clinics, one of which has already established robot-assisted rehabilitation. 171 individual codes were extracted from the interviews. Based on the professionals' statements and the literature, the most significant added value of robotic assistance systems is seen in the expected relief of employees. The study results and the literature confirm the potential of robotic systems for early neurological rehabilitation.