Small sample research designs for evidence-based rehabilitation: Issues and methods

James E. Graham, Amol M. Karmarkar, Kenneth J. Ottenbacher

Research output: Contribution to journalComment/debatepeer-review

62 Scopus citations

Abstract

Conventional research methods, including randomized controlled trials, are powerful techniques for determining the efficacy of interventions. These designs, however, have practical limitations when applied to many rehabilitation settings and research questions. Alternative methods are available that can supplement findings from traditional research designs and improve our ability to evaluate the effectiveness of treatments for individual patients. The focus on individual patients is an important element of evidenced-based rehabilitation. This article examines one such alternate approach: small-N research designs. Small-N designs usually focus on 10 or fewer participants whose behavior (outcomes) are measured repeatedly and compared over time. The advantages and limitations of various small-N designs are described and illustrated using 3 examples from the rehabilitation literature. The challenges and opportunities of applying small-N designs to enhance evidence-based rehabilitation are discussed.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)S111-S116
JournalArchives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
Volume93
Issue number8 SUPPL.
DOIs
StatePublished - Aug 2012

Keywords

  • Evaluation studies as topic
  • Evidence-based practice
  • Rehabilitation
  • Research design

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Physical Therapy, Sports Therapy and Rehabilitation
  • Rehabilitation

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Small sample research designs for evidence-based rehabilitation: Issues and methods'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this