Methodology
Virtual reality environments for post-stroke arm rehabilitation
1 School of Physical and Occupational Therapy, McGill University, 3654 Promenade Sir William Osler, Montreal, H3G 1Y5, Canada
2 School of Rehabilitation, University of Montreal, C.P. 6128, Succursale Centre-Ville Montreal, H3C 3J7, Canada
3 CRIR Research Center, Jewish Rehabilitation Hospital, 3205 Alton Goldbloom Place, Laval, H7V 1R2, Canada
4 Department of Rehabilitation, Laval University, Ste Foy, G1K 7P4, Canada
5 Department of Physiology, University of Montreal, C.P. 6128, Succursale Centre-Ville Montreal, H3C 3J7, Canada
Journal of NeuroEngineering and Rehabilitation 2007, 4:20 doi:10.1186/1743-0003-4-20
Published: 22 June 2007Abstract
Introduction
Optimal practice and feedback elements are essential requirements for maximal motor recovery in patients with motor deficits due to central nervous system lesions.
Methods
A virtual environment (VE) was created that incorporates practice and feedback elements necessary for maximal motor recovery. It permits varied and challenging practice in a motivating environment that provides salient feedback.
Results
The VE gives the user knowledge of results feedback about motor behavior and knowledge of performance feedback about the quality of pointing movements made in a virtual elevator. Movement distances are related to length of body segments.
Conclusion
We describe an immersive and interactive experimental protocol developed in a virtual reality environment using the CAREN system. The VE can be used as a training environment for the upper limb in patients with motor impairments.
