Virtual Reality Video Games to Promote Movement Recovery in Stroke Rehabilitation: A Guide for Clinicians

摘要

After stroke, people often have difficulty moving one arm and hand, but movement can improve with considerable practice. Arm movements may need to be repeated upwards of 2500 times for a person to approach his/her peak level of motor function.1 Video-gaming technology can effectively deliver engaging, high-repetition movement practice. Use of video games for rehabilitation can be as effective as more conventional approaches.2 There are 2 types of inexpensive, commonly available gaming systems that can be integrated into rehabilitation programs: controller based and camera tracking. In order for the systems to be used most effectively, it is necessary for therapists and/or individuals with stroke to assess both system types to determine which system best suits their needs and impairments. The following are examples of systems and games that incorporate movements that may be useful for rehabilitation. This is not intended to be an exhaustive list, as new games and gaming systems are constantly being introduced to the market.