The Virtual Reality Exercise Therapy Program (VRET)

Abstract

1510 Virtual Reality (VR) systems have been frequently used as an effective tool for neurological rehabilitation over the past decade. Of immediate interest is the application of VR in adjunction with physical exercises for physical and functional improvements. Grealy and colleagues (1999) found that VR combined to physical activity showed significant gains in cognitive function. Presently, the sport medicine field lacks theoretical and scientific knowledge of the potential benefits of this approach to be applied to improve Brain Injury (BI) physical rehabilitation. Aims: To develop a pilot study that will evaluate the physical and cognitive outcomes of a VR exercise program on 20 persons with BI and stroke. The findings of the proposed study will serve as a preliminary effort to establish the usefulness of VR in the physical and cognitive rehabilitation of persons with BI. Methods: Twenty BI participants will be randomized into either VR Exercise Therapy or Conventional Therapy using a stratified random sampling approach. All participants regardless of groups will undergo baseline and post-intervention assessments. Procedure: A repeated measures design will evaluate participant's outcomes with two assessments: one pre-intervention and one post-intervention assessment. Minimal client participation in the program will be measure by an 8-wk intervention, and maximal intervention period will last 12-wk. The program consists of a 40 to 60-minutes bi-weekly session. Simulative environments are based on participant's interaction with a projected image on a screen that simulates specific environments (ball, circus ring, juggle bubbles) or a sportive role (snowboard, soccer, volleyball). The virtual exercises are focused on balance, mobility, coordination, functional strength, and functional endurance training. The program is designed to be interactive and enjoyable. Results: Will be reported accordingly to client length of participation in the program (>10-wk and <10-wk). Physical functioning outcomes will be based on a battery of functional assessments. A pedometer will be used while client will be performing the 6-Minute Walk Test. Physiological parameters such as blood pressure and resting heart rate will be documented as well as weight and Body Mass Index. Analysis: Descriptive statistics will summarize demographics, frequencies, percentages, and means. Repeated Measures analysis will be conducted at the 0.5 level of significance. SPSS, version 11.0, will be used for the analysis.