Article

Improving gait speed and kinematics can be a time consuming and
tiresome process. We hypothesize that incorporating virtual reality videogame
play into variable improvement goals will improve levels of enjoyment and
motivation and lead to improved gait performance. PURPOSE:
To develop a feasible,
engaging, VR gait intervention for improving gait variables. METHODS: Completing
this investigation involved four steps: 1) identify gait variables that could be
manipulated to improve gait speed and kinematics using the Microsoft Kinect and
free software, 2) identify free internet videogames that could successfully
manipulate the chosen gait variables, 3) experimentally evaluate the ability of
the videogames and software to manipulate the gait variables, and 4) evaluate the
enjoyment and motivation from a small sample of persons without disability.
RESULTS: The Kinect sensor was able to detect stride length, cadence, and joint
angles. FAAST software was able to identify predetermined gait variable
thresholds and use the thresholds to play free online videogames. Videogames that
involved continuous pressing of a keyboard key were found to be most appropriate
for manipulating the gait variables. Five participants without disability
evaluated the effectiveness for modifying the gait variables and enjoyment and
motivation during play. Participants were able to modify gait variables to permit
successful videogame play. Motivation and enjoyment were high. SUMMARY: A
clinically feasible and engaging virtual intervention for improving gait speed
and kinematics has been developed and initially tested. It may provide an
engaging avenue for achieving thousands of repetitions necessary for neural
plastic changes and improved gait.
CI - Copyright (c) 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Langue : ANGLAIS