An interim analysis of the use of virtual reality to enhance upper limb prosthetic training and rehabilitation

Abstract

An effective prosthetic training and rehabilitation regime would be advantageous in returning the patient to the highest level of independence and functioning possible. There is a need for advanced rehabilitative interventions to optimize prosthetic training for amputees. Here we will describe a virtual reality environment system to facilitate an effective and enhanced training and rehabilitation process for upper extremity amputees. It has been noted that training with virtual reality is particularly valuable for upper-limb prosthetic users. Using the Computer Assisted Rehabilitation Environment (CAREN) system (Motek Medical, Amsterdam, Netherlands), patients can be immersed into real life situations while provided real time visual feedback of their motion. In addition to viewing real time movement, patients will be able to visualize an individualized optimal goal motion. It is hypothesized that integrating optimal model visualization and real time feedback with the CAREN system capabilities, upper extremity prosthetic training and rehabilitation will be enhanced through improved movement symmetry, task performance and functional advances. The interim results suggest that the use of virtual reality enhances upper limb prosthetic training and rehabilitation. To further assess the effectiveness of the use of virtual reality, further work will involve the testing of more subjects, analyzing return to duty and activities of daily living tasks, and the implementation of an optimal goal motion into the virtual reality system.