The Impact of Virtual Reality on Upper Extremity Function In Stroke Patients: A Pilot Study

Main Article Content

K. Kamatchi
Jibi Paul
Jagatheesan Alagesan
N. Harikrishnan

Keywords

Stroke, Virtual Reality, Fugl Meyer Upper Extremity scale ,Electromyogram, cerebrovascular accident

Abstract

Background and Objectives: A stroke, also known as a CVA (cerebrovascular accident), happens when blood flow to a portion of the brain is interrupted. When a blood vessel is blocked or ruptured, this occurs. It can result in permanent brain damage because brain cells die if they are not supplied with oxygenated blood on a regular basis. Because the majority of activities of daily living (ADL) require upper and lower limbs, and only a small percentage of patients will restore function, it is critical to enhance functional capabilities in post-stroke patients. Thus, the study focuses on the effectiveness of virtual reality in the rehabilitation of the Stroke patients to improve the upper extremity function.
Materials and Methods: 8 subjects was selected based on the selection criteria with age group between 45-70 years, people who had stroke for the first time with the onset of 2-6 months, 1st unilateral cerebral infarction, both gender (male & female), people who scored4-5 in Brunnstrom stage of recovery and people who scored between level 3 & 4 in functional test for hemiplegic upper extremity scale was included in the study. People with recent fracture & recent surgery, with cognitive or communication impairments, Parkinson’s disease, severe cardiovascular disease, with severe pain and muscleweakness, with vision and hearing problems was excluded from the study. Pre-test was done by using Fugl-Meyer Upper Extremity scale, EMG (Electromyogram).The VR treatment was conducted for 2 months (3 days / week, 45 minutes a day with the rest period of 2 minutes, between each set of games.).Statistics were done based on the data collected.
Result: On comparing the pre and post test values shows highly significance difference between Pre-test and Post-test mean values at P ≤ 0.001. The result of the study showed that Virtual Reality (VR) was effective in improving the upper limb function among MCA Stroke patients.
Conclusion: The conclusion of the study showed that Virtual Reality (VR) was effective in improving the upper limb function among Stroke patients. The intensive and repetitive use of the affected upper limb by using Immersive Virtual reality showed positive effects on improving the motor function and skills in stroke patients.

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