Abstract
The design and application of Serious Games (SG) based on the Leap Motion sensor are presented as a tool to support the rehabilitation therapies for upper limbs. Initially, the design principles and their implementation are described, focusing on improving both unilateral and bilateral manual dexterity and coordination. The design of the games has been supervised by specialized therapists. To assess the therapeutic effectiveness of the proposed system, a protocol of trials with Parkinson's patients has been defined. Evaluations of the physical condition of the participants in the study, at the beginning and at the end of the treatment, are carried out using standard tests. The specific measurements of each game give the therapist more detailed information about the patients' evolution after finishing the planned protocol. The obtained results support the fact that the set of developed video games can be combined to define different therapy protocols and that the information obtained is richer than the one obtained through current clinical metrics, serving as method of motor function assessment.
Highlights
Parkinson’s disease (PD) is defined as a chronic neurodegenerative disorder caused by the destruction of dopaminergic neurons located at the basal ganglia
The results obtained by the video games usage are shown
The gaps in the curves are related to the treatment protocol, since not all the video games were used in all sessions, with the exception of the Piano Game
Summary
Parkinson’s disease (PD) is defined as a chronic neurodegenerative disorder caused by the destruction of dopaminergic neurons located at the basal ganglia These central nervous system (CNS) neurons are used as primary neurotransmitter dopamine, which is responsible for transmitting the necessary information for the correct control of movements [1, 2]. PD is characterized by a symptomatic tetrad that consists of resting tremor, stiffness, bradykinesia, and alteration of the straightening reflexes [2, 8]. It presents other symptoms such as decreased facial expression, sialorrhea, arterial hypotension, depression, and cognitive impairment, among others, with the nonmotor symptoms of the disease being important [9]. These symptoms impair the performance of their daily activities, reducing their level of independence [10]
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
