Single subject research designs for disability research.

PURPOSE

The objective of this article is to offer an overview of single subject designs and provide clinicians with information regarding the components of single subject designs and how they can be used in clinical and other rehabilitation environments.

METHOD/RESULT: Three basic designs in single subject research are presented, with corresponding examples illustrating each design. A review of visual and statistical analysis techniques commonly used in single subject designs is provided, and the advantages and limitations of each are noted.

CONCLUSION

Single subject designs are ideally suited for research in the rehabilitation practice environment. If properly applied, these designs can help establish the efficacy of rehabilitation practice and contribute to rehabilitation science.