Model showing the goal-setting and goal-planning process (modified from Scobbie et al., 2010; []. The patient may identify a broad walking goal upon admission to rehabilitation, such as “I want to be able to walk better”. The physiotherapist would discuss this goal with the patient and determine a more measurable and meaningful goal, such as “I want to be able to walk my grandson to school, which is 300m away from my house”. A short-term sub-goal is then established to help the patient progressively achieve their longer-term goal; i.e. “I want to walk 100m without stopping”. Following identification of short-term goals, a rehabilitation plan is developed and put into action. Progress towards the goal is appraised and feedback is provided to the patient; it is at this point in the goal-setting process that accelerometers can be beneficial. The appraisal will allow therapists and patients to determine if the sub-goal has been achieved. If so, a more challenging sub-goal may be developed. If the sub-goal was not achieved, the physiotherapist may modify his/her treatment plan. This cycle continues until all goals are achieved.
Mansfield et al. BMC Neurology 2013 13:93 doi:10.1186/1471-2377-13-93