Saskia Baltrusch

15 Chapter 1 to an early onset of fatigue, which increases the risk of fatigue-related injuries of the low-back. Qualitatively, I conducted focus groups and interviews to collect opinion and thoughts on the exoskeletons’ potential usability and acceptance in the rehabilitation and industry setting. Therefore, the global aim of this thesis is divided into two parts: 1) To study the potential effectiveness of using a passive trunk exoskeleton (SPEXOR) for low-back pain prevention and vocational reintegration 2) To provide insight into factors that can influence the usability and acceptability of an exoskeleton In view of the aims of the thesis and the mixed method approach, this thesis is composed of three parts, dealing with the following research questions: 1) Which factors should be considered, from the end-users’ perspective, when designing an exoskeleton for people with low-back pain? 2) What is the effect of the exoskeleton on functional performance, user satisfaction and aerobic loading? 3) How does the exoskeleton influence self-efficacy and how can acceptability of the device be improved? The first part of my thesis aims attention at identifying criteria that should be considered when developing an exoskeleton. In Chapter 2 , end-users’ perspectives on a passive exoskeleton are assessed using a qualitative approach. Conducting focus group discussions with low-back pain patients with different levels of pain severity and healthcare professionals of various backgrounds, I aimed to collect a broad view of factors that need to be considered when developing an exoskeleton. Furthermore, the potential field of application, vocation or rehabilitation is discussed. The second part of this thesis deals with the evaluation of the exoskeleton. A test battery is developed to assess the effect of the exoskeleton on functional performance, user satisfaction and aerobic loading. First, this test battery is 1