Evaluation of a novel cervical orthosis to support neck weakness due to neurological disease 

Many people with Motor Neurone Disease (MND) develop weak
neck muscles, leading to pain and restricted movement, as well as problems with swallowing, breathing and communication. Ideally a head support would help to alleviate these problems. However we have found that head supports currently available are of limited use for people with MND, and are often rejected by them. We have developed a new head support called ‘HeadUp’ in collaboration with people living with MND, their families and MND healthcare professionals.

In this phase of the project, 20 users will be recruited to use and
evaluate the new device over a four week period. Participants will be provided with a HeadUp support and asked to complete a range of questionnaires and undergo an interview about their neck weakness and the new collar. The purpose of the study is to establish if the new collar is acceptable to people living with MND and if it meets their identified needs.

Funding:  NIHR Invention for Innovation (i4i)
Sponsor:  Sheffield Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust

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UK Clinical Research Network Portfolio