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De Pasquale P, Bonanno M, Mojdehdehbaher S, Quartarone A, Calabrò RS. The Use of Head-Mounted Display Systems for Upper Limb Kinematic Analysis in Post-Stroke Patients: A Perspective Review on Benefits, Challenges and Other Solutions. Bioengineering (Basel) 2024; 11:538. [PMID: 38927774 PMCID: PMC11200415 DOI: 10.3390/bioengineering11060538] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2024] [Revised: 05/20/2024] [Accepted: 05/21/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
In recent years, there has been a notable increase in the clinical adoption of instrumental upper limb kinematic assessment. This trend aligns with the rising prevalence of cerebrovascular impairments, one of the most prevalent neurological disorders. Indeed, there is a growing need for more objective outcomes to facilitate tailored rehabilitation interventions following stroke. Emerging technologies, like head-mounted virtual reality (HMD-VR) platforms, have responded to this demand by integrating diverse tracking methodologies. Specifically, HMD-VR technology enables the comprehensive tracking of body posture, encompassing hand position and gesture, facilitated either through specific tracker placements or via integrated cameras coupled with sophisticated computer graphics algorithms embedded within the helmet. This review aims to present the state-of-the-art applications of HMD-VR platforms for kinematic analysis of the upper limb in post-stroke patients, comparing them with conventional tracking systems. Additionally, we address the potential benefits and challenges associated with these platforms. These systems might represent a promising avenue for safe, cost-effective, and portable objective motor assessment within the field of neurorehabilitation, although other systems, including robots, should be taken into consideration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paolo De Pasquale
- IRCCS Centro Neurolesi Bonino-Pulejo, Cda Casazza, SS 113, 98124 Messina, Italy; (P.D.P.); (A.Q.); (R.S.C.)
| | - Mirjam Bonanno
- IRCCS Centro Neurolesi Bonino-Pulejo, Cda Casazza, SS 113, 98124 Messina, Italy; (P.D.P.); (A.Q.); (R.S.C.)
| | - Sepehr Mojdehdehbaher
- Department of Mathematics, Computer Science, Physics and Earth Sciences (MIFT), University of Messina, Viale Ferdinando Stagno d’Alcontres, 31, 98166 Messina, Italy;
| | - Angelo Quartarone
- IRCCS Centro Neurolesi Bonino-Pulejo, Cda Casazza, SS 113, 98124 Messina, Italy; (P.D.P.); (A.Q.); (R.S.C.)
| | - Rocco Salvatore Calabrò
- IRCCS Centro Neurolesi Bonino-Pulejo, Cda Casazza, SS 113, 98124 Messina, Italy; (P.D.P.); (A.Q.); (R.S.C.)
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Maggio MG, Cezar RP, Milardi D, Borzelli D, DE Marchis C, D'Avella A, Quartarone A, Calabrò RS. Do patients with neurological disorders benefit from immersive virtual reality? A scoping review on the emerging use of the computer-assisted rehabilitation environment. Eur J Phys Rehabil Med 2024; 60:37-43. [PMID: 37971719 PMCID: PMC10939039 DOI: 10.23736/s1973-9087.23.08025-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2023] [Revised: 09/11/2023] [Accepted: 10/27/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Virtual reality (VR) is an advanced technology that creates simulated environments and conditions. By offering the possibility of combining motor, cognitive, and well-being in conjunction with the potential to manipulate multi-sensorial features in a safe environment, VR has emerged as a promising powerful rehabilitation tool. Among advanced VR systems, various authors have highlighted promising effects in the rehabilitation of the computer-assisted rehabilitation environment (CAREN - Motekforce Link; Amsterdam, The Netherlands). In our scoping review, we aimed to map the existing evidence on the use of CAREN in the rehabilitation of neurological patients. EVIDENCE ACQUISITION This scoping review was conducted following the PRISMA guidelines. A search was carried out for all peer-reviewed articles published until June 30, 2023, using the following databases: PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Database, PeDro and Web of Science. The following terms have been used: ("Cognitive Rehabilitation" OR "Motor Rehabilitation" OR "CAREN" or "Computer-Assisted Rehabilitation Environment") AND ("Virtual Reality" OR "Rehab"). EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS From the assessed studies, only seven met the inclusion criteria: 1) one study concerned cognitive rehabilitation in patients suffering from Parkinson's Disease (PD); 2) one was on the usability of CAREN in PD patients; 3) two studies related to the influence of emotional components to CAREN rehabilitation; 4) three studies were related to motor rehabilitation using CAREN, and involved individuals with PD, Multiple Sclerosis, TBI, respectively. Generally, the few assessed studies demonstrate that CAREN is a safe and potentially effective tool to treat different symptoms (including gait and vestibular disturbances, executive function, depressive mood, and anxiety) in patients with different neurological disorders. CONCLUSIONS The reviewed literature indicated the potential use of CAREN in improving motor and cognitive skills with conflicting results on emotional aspects. However, since the data comes from few and small sample size studies, further research is needed to confirm the effectiveness of the tool in neurorehabilitation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Rocha P Cezar
- Department of Computer Science and Applied Mathematics, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
- The Center of Advanced Technology in Rehabilitation, Sheba Medical Center, Ramat Gan, Israel
| | - Demetrio Milardi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Dentistry, and Morpho-Functional Imaging, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Daniele Borzelli
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Dentistry, and Morpho-Functional Imaging, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | | | - Andrea D'Avella
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Dentistry, and Morpho-Functional Imaging, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
- Laboratory of Neuromotor Physiology, IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy
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Wang C, Kong J, Qi H. Areas of Research Focus and Trends in the Research on the Application of VR in Rehabilitation Medicine. Healthcare (Basel) 2023; 11:2056. [PMID: 37510497 PMCID: PMC10379147 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare11142056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2023] [Revised: 07/10/2023] [Accepted: 07/11/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To establish the areas of research focus in the application of VR in rehabilitation medicine, analyze its themes and trends, and offer a reference for future related research in this field. METHODS This paper provides an in-depth analysis of the development process, areas of research focus, and research trends in the field of the application of VR in rehabilitation medicine, using the Web of Science core dataset as the source and using a bibliometric analysis with CiteSpace. RESULTS The application of VR in rehabilitation medicine was composed of three stages, and the research topics were reviewed from five perspectives: neurological rehabilitation, psychological treatment, pain distraction, cardiopulmonary rehabilitation, and visual-spatial disorder. LIMITATIONS The research data were sourced from the Web of Science core dataset only, and the data-sample size was not comprehensive. CONCLUSIONS Overcoming VR-technology-induced vertigo, mental disorders from the overuse of VR, individualized treatments, and integration with traditional therapy are all challenges in the application of VR in rehabilitation medicine that require research. In addition, developing VR products with better experiences, constructing standardized guidelines, and conducting more high-quality clinical studies are all future research topics related to the application of VR in rehabilitation medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chen Wang
- Department of Health Informatics and Management, The School of Health Humanities, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Jingqi Kong
- Department of Language and Culture in Medicine, The School of Health Humanities, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Huiying Qi
- Department of Health Informatics and Management, The School of Health Humanities, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China
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Formica C, Bonanno L, Latella D, Ferrera MC, Maresca G, Logiudice AL, Sorbera C, Brigandì A, Di Lorenzo G, Marino S. The effect of Computer Assisted Rehabilitation Environment (CAREN) in cognitive impairment and coping strategies in Parkinson's disease: a preliminary study. Sci Rep 2023; 13:2214. [PMID: 36750642 PMCID: PMC9905468 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-29299-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2022] [Accepted: 02/02/2023] [Indexed: 02/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Parkinson's disease is a neurodegenerative disorder characterized by different motor, vegetative, behavioral, and cognitive impairments, with worsening quality of life. Virtual reality devices have given promising results in neurorehabilitation as they can provide multisensory stimulation in a realistic environment. This study aims to test the efficacy of virtual reality training by using Computer Assisted Rehabilitation Environment in cognitive impairment in a sample of PD. 31 patients affected by PD were enrolled. All PD patients underwent 24 sessions of Computer Assisted Rehabilitation Environment training. The participants were assessed at baseline (T0) and after two months (T1). Our results suggested that Computer Assisted Rehabilitation Environment training may be effective in the cognitive and emotional domains, particularly by improving executive function, anxiety, and depressive symptoms. These changes have helped to improve self-efficacy and coping strategies. These results indicate greater cognitive and physical effort to overcome stressors. Our results show that Computer Assisted Rehabilitation Environment training was beneficial in improving cognitive functions. Longer duration training may be especially beneficial for patients with mild cognitive impairment. Our findings open the door to tailored personalized treatments based on the patient's motor and cognitive profiles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caterina Formica
- IRCCS Centro Neurolesi "Bonino-Pulejo", S.S. 113 Via Palermo, C.da Casazza, 98124, Messina, Italy
| | - Lilla Bonanno
- IRCCS Centro Neurolesi "Bonino-Pulejo", S.S. 113 Via Palermo, C.da Casazza, 98124, Messina, Italy
| | - Desiree Latella
- IRCCS Centro Neurolesi "Bonino-Pulejo", S.S. 113 Via Palermo, C.da Casazza, 98124, Messina, Italy.
| | - Maria Cristina Ferrera
- IRCCS Centro Neurolesi "Bonino-Pulejo", S.S. 113 Via Palermo, C.da Casazza, 98124, Messina, Italy
| | - Giuseppa Maresca
- IRCCS Centro Neurolesi "Bonino-Pulejo", S.S. 113 Via Palermo, C.da Casazza, 98124, Messina, Italy
| | - Anna Lisa Logiudice
- IRCCS Centro Neurolesi "Bonino-Pulejo", S.S. 113 Via Palermo, C.da Casazza, 98124, Messina, Italy
| | - Chiara Sorbera
- IRCCS Centro Neurolesi "Bonino-Pulejo", S.S. 113 Via Palermo, C.da Casazza, 98124, Messina, Italy
| | - Amelia Brigandì
- IRCCS Centro Neurolesi "Bonino-Pulejo", S.S. 113 Via Palermo, C.da Casazza, 98124, Messina, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Di Lorenzo
- IRCCS Centro Neurolesi "Bonino-Pulejo", S.S. 113 Via Palermo, C.da Casazza, 98124, Messina, Italy
| | - Silvia Marino
- IRCCS Centro Neurolesi "Bonino-Pulejo", S.S. 113 Via Palermo, C.da Casazza, 98124, Messina, Italy
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Effect of Immersive Virtual Reality by a Computer Assisted Rehabilitation Environment (CAREN) in Juvenile Huntington’s Disease: A Case Report. Medicina (B Aires) 2022; 58:medicina58070919. [PMID: 35888638 PMCID: PMC9318861 DOI: 10.3390/medicina58070919] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2022] [Revised: 07/02/2022] [Accepted: 07/08/2022] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Various studies have proven the utility of immersive virtual reality (VR) as a complementary approach to conventional neurorehabilitation therapy for improving neuromuscular and cognitive outcomes in several neurological diseases. We hereby report findings from a single-case experience of a 21-year-old woman affected by juvenile Huntington’s disease (HD) who underwent a targeted rehabilitative approach using an advanced Computer Assisted Rehabilitation Environment (CAREN) with a three sessions/week schedule for six months. At the end of the program, a manifested improvement was noticed in the Falls Efficacy Scale International score, in the Tinetti Scale, in the Berg Balance score and in the lower limb strength (MRC scale). Minor although tangible improvements were also noticed in some physical performance tests (10 m walking test, time up and go test). Findings reported, although preliminary, extend for the first time the usefulness of neurorehabilitation using innovative VR technologies also to juvenile HD, a condition for which common rehabilitation strategies bring only marginal physical benefits in the majority of cases. Future, controlled studies are awaited for generalizing these observations to larger populations and for clarifying whether such benefits may persist also in the long-term.
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Mazgelytė E, Rekienė V, Dereškevičiūtė E, Petrėnas T, Songailienė J, Utkus A, Chomentauskas G, Karčiauskaitė D. Effects of Virtual Reality-Based Relaxation Techniques on Psychological, Physiological, and Biochemical Stress Indicators. Healthcare (Basel) 2021; 9:healthcare9121729. [PMID: 34946455 PMCID: PMC8701384 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare9121729] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2021] [Revised: 12/09/2021] [Accepted: 12/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Various relaxation techniques could benefit from merging with virtual reality (VR) technologies, as these technologies are easily applicable, involving, and user-friendly. To date, it is unclear which relaxation technique using biofeedback combined with VR technology is the most effective. The study aimed to compare the effectiveness of brief VR-based biofeedback-assisted relaxation techniques including electroencephalographic biofeedback, mindfulness-based biofeedback, galvanic skin response biofeedback, and respiratory biofeedback. Forty-three healthy volunteers (age 34.7 ± 7.2 years), comprising 28 (65%) women and 15 (35%) men, were enrolled in the study. All the participants were exposed to four distinct relaxation sessions according to a computer-generated random sequence. The efficacy of relaxation methods was evaluated by examining psychological, physiological, and biochemical stress indicators. All VR-based relaxation techniques reduced salivary steroid hormone (i.e., cortisol, cortisone, and total glucocorticoid) levels and increased galvanic skin response values. Similarly, all interventions led to a significantly reduced subjectively perceived psychological strain level. Three out of the four interventions (i.e., electroencephalographic, respiratory, and galvanic skin response-based biofeedback relaxation sessions) resulted in a decreased self-reported fatigue level. We suggest that newly developed VR-based relaxations techniques are potential tools for stress reduction and might be particularly suitable for individuals who are not capable of adhering to a strict and time-consuming stress management intervention schedule.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eglė Mazgelytė
- Department of Physiology, Biochemistry, Microbiology and Laboratory Medicine, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Vilnius University, LT-03101 Vilnius, Lithuania;
- Correspondence:
| | - Virginija Rekienė
- Human Study Center, LT-01132 Vilnius, Lithuania; (V.R.); (E.D.); (G.C.)
| | | | - Tomas Petrėnas
- Department of Human and Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Vilnius University, LT-03101 Vilnius, Lithuania; (T.P.); (J.S.); (A.U.)
| | - Jurgita Songailienė
- Department of Human and Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Vilnius University, LT-03101 Vilnius, Lithuania; (T.P.); (J.S.); (A.U.)
| | - Algirdas Utkus
- Department of Human and Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Vilnius University, LT-03101 Vilnius, Lithuania; (T.P.); (J.S.); (A.U.)
| | | | - Dovilė Karčiauskaitė
- Department of Physiology, Biochemistry, Microbiology and Laboratory Medicine, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Vilnius University, LT-03101 Vilnius, Lithuania;
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Takac M, Collett J, Conduit R, De Foe A. Addressing virtual reality misclassification: A hardware-based qualification matrix for virtual reality technology. Clin Psychol Psychother 2021; 28:538-556. [PMID: 34110659 DOI: 10.1002/cpp.2624] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2021] [Accepted: 05/22/2021] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Through its unique sensory synchronized design, virtual reality (VR) provides a convincing, user-centred experience of highly controllable scenarios. Importantly, VR is a promising modality for healthcare, where treatment efficacy has been recognized for a range of conditions. It is equally valuable across wider research disciplines. However, there is a lack of suitable criteria and consistent terminology with which to define VR technology. A considerable number of studies have misclassified VR hardware (e.g. defining laptops as VR), hindering validity and research comparisons. This review addresses these limitations and establishes a standardized VR qualification framework. As a result of a comprehensive theoretical and literature review, the hardware-based VR qualification matrix is proposed. The matrix criteria consist of (1) three-dimensional (3D) synchronized sensory stimulation; (2) degrees of freedom tracking; and (3) visual suppression of physical stimuli. To validate the model and quantify the current scale/diversity of VR misclassification, a 2019 sectional review of health-related studies was conducted. Of the 115 studies examined against standardized criteria, 35.7% utilized VR, 31.3% misclassified VR, 18.3% were considered quasi-VR, and 14.8% omitted critical specifications. The proposed model demonstrates good validity and reliability for qualifying and classifying VR. Key Practitioner Messages Virtual reality (VR) therapy has gained rapid empirical support, although many practitioners do not understand the difference between genuine and less-realistic VR variations. That has resulted from an evident lack of suitable criteria to define VR across a range of studies and protocols. Our proposed hardware-based virtual reality qualification matrix addresses issues to do with misclassification, via the introduction of standardised criteria. Applying the matrix to existing literature has revealed that more than 30% of VR studies use hardware that does not fit the high standards of rigour required for immersion in a simulated space. The model is a practical tool researchers and practitioners can use to quality and verify VR standards across research studies.
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Javaid M, Haleem A. Virtual reality applications toward medical field. CLINICAL EPIDEMIOLOGY AND GLOBAL HEALTH 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cegh.2019.12.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
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Sun J, Lv X, Gao X, Chen Z, Wei D, Ling Y, Zhang J, Gu Q, Liu J, Chen W, Liu S. The association between serum uric acid level and the risk of cognitive impairment after ischemic stroke. Neurosci Lett 2020; 734:135098. [PMID: 32485287 DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2020.135098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2020] [Revised: 05/20/2020] [Accepted: 05/24/2020] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Post-stroke cognitive impairment (PSCI) is a severe complication of stroke. Predicting PSCI is difficult because some risk factors for stroke, such as blood glucose level and blood pressure, are affected by many other elements. Although recent studies have shown that high serum uric acid (UA) levels are associated with cognitive dysfunction and may be a risk factor for PSCI, its impact remains unclear. Accordingly, the present study aimed to explore the association between serum UA level and PSCI. In total, 274 patients who experienced acute cerebral infarction, confirmed between January 2016 and December 2018, were enrolled. Baseline data and biological indicators were recorded. According to the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) scores, patients were divided into two groups: PSCI and non-PSCI. Logistic regression analysis was used to determine possible risk factors for PSCI. Results demonstrated that serum UA levels were significantly higher in the PSCI group than in the non-PSCI group. Multivariable logistic analysis revealed that age, years of education, and UA level were independent risk factors for PSCI. PSCI patients were subdivided according to serum UA level: high and low. Hypertension history and homocysteine (Hcy) levels differed significantly between the high and low UA level groups. Further analysis revealed that a history of hypertension and Hcy demonstrated a certain correlation (r = 0.163, 0.162; P < 0.05), suggesting that serum UA level was an independent risk factor for PSCI. These findings indicate that serum UA level was correlated with PSCI in post-stroke patients and is anticipated to be used in clinical practice to reduce the incidence of PSCI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Sun
- Department of Neurology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, 325027, China
| | - Xinhuang Lv
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, 325027, China
| | - Xinxin Gao
- Department of Preventive Medicine, School of Public Health and Management, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, 325035, China
| | - Zewei Chen
- Department of Preventive Medicine, School of Public Health and Management, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, 325035, China
| | - Dianhui Wei
- Department of Preventive Medicine, School of Public Health and Management, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, 325035, China
| | - Yi Ling
- Department of Neurology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, 325027, China
| | - Junmei Zhang
- Department of Neurology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, 325027, China
| | - Qilu Gu
- Department of Neurology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, 325027, China
| | - Jiaming Liu
- Department of Preventive Medicine, School of Public Health and Management, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, 325035, China.
| | - Weian Chen
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, 325027, China.
| | - Suzhi Liu
- Department of Neurology, Taizhou Hospital of Zhejiang Province, Wenzhou Medical University, 150 Ximen Street, Linhai, Zhejiang, 317000, China.
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Immersive Virtual Reality in Stroke Patients as a New Approach for Reducing Postural Disabilities and Falls Risk: A Case Series. Brain Sci 2020; 10:brainsci10050296. [PMID: 32429085 PMCID: PMC7287864 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci10050296] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2020] [Revised: 05/06/2020] [Accepted: 05/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Stroke is a neurologic disorder considered the first cause of disability worldwide due to motor, cognitive, and sensorial sequels. Balance dysfunctions in stroke survivors increase the risk of falls and physiotherapeutic rehabilitation is essential to reduce it. Virtual reality (VR) seems to be an alternative to conventional physiotherapy (CT), providing virtual environments and multisensorial inputs to train balance in stroke patients. The aim of this study was to assess if immersive VR treatment is more effective than CT to improve balance after stroke. This study got the approval from the Ethics Committee of the University of Almeria. Three chronic ischemic stroke patients were selected. One patient who received 25 sessions of immersive VR intervention for two months was compared with another patient who received equivalent CT and a third patient with no intervention. Balance, gait, risk of falling, and vestibular and visual implications in the equilibrium were assessed. After the interventions, the two patients receiving any of the treatments showed an improvement in balance compared to the untreated patient. In comparison to CT, our results suggest a higher effect of immersive VR in the improvement of balance and a reduction of falls risk due to the active upright work during the VR intervention.
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Butti N, Biffi E, Genova C, Romaniello R, Redaelli DF, Reni G, Borgatti R, Urgesi C. Virtual Reality Social Prediction Improvement and Rehabilitation Intensive Training (VR-SPIRIT) for paediatric patients with congenital cerebellar diseases: study protocol of a randomised controlled trial. Trials 2020; 21:82. [PMID: 31937355 PMCID: PMC6961250 DOI: 10.1186/s13063-019-4001-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2019] [Accepted: 12/16/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Patients with cerebellar malformations exhibit not only movement problems, but also important deficits in social cognition. Thus, rehabilitation approaches should not only involve the recovery of motor function but also of higher-order abilities such as processing of social stimuli. In keeping with the general role of the cerebellum in anticipating and predicting events, we used a VR-based rehabilitation system to implement a social cognition intensive training specifically tailored to improve predictive abilities in social scenarios (VR-Spirit). Methods/design The study is an interventional randomised controlled trial that aims to recruit 42 children, adolescents and young adults with congenital cerebellar malformations, randomly allocated to the experimental group or the active control group. The experimental group is administered the VR-Spirit, requiring the participants to compete with different avatars in the reaching of recreational equipment and implicitly prompting them to form expectations about their playing preference. The active control group participates in a VR-training with standard games currently adopted for motor rehabilitation. Both trainings are composed by eight 45-min sessions and are administered in the GRAIL VR laboratory (Motekforce Link, Netherlands), an integrated platform that allows patients to move in natural and attractive VR environments. An evaluation session in VR with the same paradigm used in the VR-Spirit but implemented in a different scenario is administered at the beginning (T0) of the two trainings (T1) and at the end (T2). Moreover, a battery of neurocognitive tests spanning different domains is administered to all participants at T0, T2 and in a follow-up session after 2 months from the end of the two trainings (T3). Discussion This study offers a novel approach for rehabilitation based on specific neural mechanisms of the cerebellum. We aim to investigate the feasibility and efficacy of a new, intensive, social cognition training in a sample of Italian patients aged 7–25 years with congenital cerebellar malformations. We expect that VR-Spirit could enhance social prediction ability and indirectly improve cognitive performance in diverse domains. Moreover, through the comparison with a VR-active control training we aim to verify the specificity of VR-Spirit in improving social perception skills. Trial registration ISRCTN, ID: ISRCTN 22332873. Retrospectively registered on 12 March 2018.
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Affiliation(s)
- Niccolò Butti
- Scientific Institute, IRCCS E. Medea, Bosisio Parini, Lecco, Italy.
| | - Emilia Biffi
- Scientific Institute, IRCCS E. Medea, Bosisio Parini, Lecco, Italy
| | - Chiara Genova
- Scientific Institute, IRCCS E. Medea, Bosisio Parini, Lecco, Italy
| | | | | | - Gianluigi Reni
- Scientific Institute, IRCCS E. Medea, Bosisio Parini, Lecco, Italy
| | - Renato Borgatti
- Scientific Institute, IRCCS E. Medea, Bosisio Parini, Lecco, Italy.,IRCCS C. Mondino National Neurological Institute, Pavia, Italy
| | - Cosimo Urgesi
- Scientific Institute, IRCCS E. Medea, Bosisio Parini, Lecco, Italy. .,Laboratory of Cognitive Neuroscience, Department of Languages and Literatures, Communication, Education and Society, University of Udine, Udine, Italy.
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