Effects of a Virtual Reality Cycling Platform on Lower Limb Rehabilitation in Patients With Ataxia and Hemiparesis: Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial

Abstract

Abstract BackgroundNew interventions based on motor learning principles and neural plasticity have been tested among patients with ataxia and hemiparesis. Therapies of pedaling exercises have also shown their potential to induce improvements in muscle activity, strength, and balance. Virtual reality (VR) has been demonstrated as an effective tool for improving the adherence to physical therapy, but it is still undetermined if it promotes greater improvements than conventional therapy. ObjectiveOur objective was to compare the effect on lower limb range of motion (ROM) when using VR technology for cycling exercise versus not using VR technology. MethodsA randomized controlled trial with 20 patients with ataxia and hemiparesis was carried out. The participants were divided into 2 groups: the experimental group (n=10, 50%) performed pedaling exercises using the VR system and the control group (n=10, 50%) performed pedaling exercises without using VR. Measurements of the active and passive ROM of the hip and knee joint were taken before and after a cycling intervention, which consisted of 3 sessions of the same duration but with progressively increasing speeds (4, 5, and 6 km/h). Repeated measures ANOVAs were conducted to compare the preintervention (TieΔeit ResultsSignificant improvements were shown in active left hip flexion (PPPPPPPPPPPPPP ConclusionsIn this study, participants who underwent the cycling intervention using the VR system showed similar improvement in lower limb ROM to the participants who underwent conventional training. Ultimately, the VR system can be used to engage participants in physical activity.