Virtual reality and haptics as an assessment device in the postacute phase after stroke

Virtual reality (VR) technology is altering the health care environment and is changing the options that are available to therapists. This study describes how a haptic device was used as a cinematic assessment utility. Three chronic stroke inpatients at Sahlgrenska University Hospital with left hemi...

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Bibliographic Details
Published inCyberpsychology & behavior Vol. 5; no. 3; p. 207
Main Authors Broeren, Jurgen, Björkdahl, Ann, Pascher, Ragnar, Rydmark, Martin
Format Journal Article
LanguageEnglish
Published United States 01.06.2002
Subjects
Adult
Dominance, Cerebral - physiology
Exercise Therapy
Feasibility Studies
Hemiplegia - rehabilitation
Humans
Kinesthesis
Male
Middle Aged
Orientation
Psychomotor Disorders - rehabilitation
Software
Stroke Rehabilitation
Therapy, Computer-Assisted
User-Computer Interface
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Summary:Virtual reality (VR) technology is altering the health care environment and is changing the options that are available to therapists. This study describes how a haptic device was used as a cinematic assessment utility. Three chronic stroke inpatients at Sahlgrenska University Hospital with left hemisphere damage were assessed. The patients were administered by the box and block manual dexterity test. For comparisons, a reference group was added to the study. Several parameters, including time, speed, and movement of the right upper extremity, were extracted and evaluated. The results indicate that the system shows potential as an assessment device. The feasibility study setup is working well, as is the assessment method. Further research, testing, refinement of the exercises, and use of VR and haptics within neurological rehabilitation are suggested.
ISSN:1094-9313
DOI:10.1089/109493102760147196