Article

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of additional
virtual reality training using Xbox Kinect on upper extremity function, including
range of motion, motor function, and gross manual dexterity, in stroke survivors
with hemiplegia. This study is a randomized controlled trial. Forty
participants were randomly allocated to either the experimental or control
groups; the experimental group (n = 20) underwent virtual reality training using
Xbox Kinect and conventional occupational therapy, and the control group (n = 20)
underwent conventional occupational therapy alone. The mean time since the onset
of stroke was 7.22 mos in the experimental group and 8.47 mos in the control
group. At baseline and after 6 wks of intervention, range of motion of the upper
extremity was measured, and the Fugl-Meyer Assessment and the Box and Block Test
were performed. RESULTS: After intervention, significant improvements from
baseline values in range of motion of the upper extremity, Fugl-Meyer Assessment
scores, and Box and Block Test scores were observed in the experimental and
control groups (P < 0.05). At follow-up, there were significant differences
between the two groups in range of motion (except for the wrist), Fugl-Meyer
Assessment scores, and Box and Block Test scores (P < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: The
hemiplegic stroke survivors who received additional virtual reality training
using Xbox Kinect showed significantly improved function of the upper extremity.
However, the effects of the virtual reality training using Xbox Kinect may have
been a result of the greater total intervention time in the training group
compared with the control group. Thus, the potential efficacy of Xbox Kinect in
the rehabilitation of post-stroke survivors needs to be investigated in greater
depth.

Langue : ANGLAIS