Surface design in the field of health and wellness: a study on the characteristics of three-dimensional textures applied to the myofascial roller product

Abstract

This qualitative and experimental study is part of an ongoing master’s research to map the elementary characteristics of the three-dimensional textures applied to the surface of the myofascial roller, and its projectual and interactive configurations that are important for the praxis of the surface designer working in the medical field. To do so, this study is supported by theories of surface design practices, product design, ergonomics and sensory perception. Semi-structured qualitative interviews were carried out with physiotherapy professionals, in order to understand the importance of three-dimensional textures for the field, along with a systematic review of the literature. Finally, netnography was done on YouTube and on complementary websites. The requirements used for the selection of the analyzed products were availability of digital patents and presence of grid on the surface (term most used in the segment, synonymous with three-dimensional textures). To correlate the collected data with the theories presented, an analysis was made to generate representative content for the field.