Abstract
Objective: Test the feasibility of using a home-based virtual reality rehabilitation device for upper extremity dysfunction after stroke
Background: Stroke is the most common cause of disability in the US with 15–30% of survivors experiencing chronic arm weakness (1, 2). Upper extremity function is crucial for completing activities of daily living and strongly tied to quality of life (3). Therapy focusing on highly repetitive and specific tasks has been shown to promote motor recovery (4). The Neofect glove was developed to assist patients with hand/arm disability in performing high number of repetitive movements by playing task based virtual reality games. Results have been promising in stroke patients when used during guided therapy (5). This study aims to test the feasibility of using the glove for unsupervised home therapy.
Design/Methods: Patients were included if they had an ischemic stroke and upper extremity functional deficit. Patients enrolled were instructed to use to the glove one hour per day 5 days per week for a total of 8 weeks. To determine feasibility of home based therapy, minutes per day of use was recorded by the glove software and patients filled out user experience questionnaires.
Results: Out of the 9 subjects, 5 reached the goal daily goal weekly. On average, patients used the glove 27 minute per day (SD 19 min) for 5 days per week (SD 2 days). All patients agreed that they liked the glove and 6 were strongly satisfied with their overall experience. Only 1 patient found the glove to be uncomfortable. Six patients thought the glove met their rehabilitation need.
Conclusions: This preliminary data shows that patients can use the Neofect device for home therapy with high satisfaction and, in most cases, satisfactory compliance. Additional studies with clinical endpoints in a larger cohort will evaluate if use of the glove improves upper extremity function.
Study Supported by:
Disclosure: Dr. Parikh has nothing to disclose. Dr. Legault has nothing to disclose. Dr. Flavin has nothing to disclose. Dr. Lansberg has nothing to disclose.
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