Individuals with upper limb functional impairments, such as those resulting from stroke, spinal cord injury, musculoskeletal disorders, or degenerative joint disease, often experience difficulties operating smartphones. Standard devices typically require bilateral, precise fine motor control, which can limit independence, participation, and access to digital communication for this population. Although assistive products such as phone stands, straps, or styluses are available, they are often designed as "one-size-fits-all," lack individualization, and may not be well integrated into daily life.
Three-dimensional (3D) printing offers advantages of customization, modularity, low cost, and rapid production, and may support better matching between users and assistive devices. However, in clinical practice, the use of 3D-printed assistive technology is constrained by the lack of an integrated resource platform and standardized fitting procedures.
This exploratory intervention study aims to develop a 3D assistive device selection interface and a standardized fitting process for smartphone-related devices targeting adults with upper limb dysfunction. Approximately 30 outpatients will be recruited from a regional teaching hospital in northern Taiwan and will receive a 1-week intervention using a 3D-printed mobile phone holder or related assistive device, with occupational therapist support. Pre- and post-intervention assessments will examine smartphone task performance and satisfaction with the assistive technology. Feasibility, usability, and preliminary effectiveness will be evaluated to inform the development of a sustainable clinical service model.