Kinect-based individualized upper extremity rehabilitation is effective and feasible for individuals with stroke using a transition from clinic to home protocol

Abstract

Purpose: To investigate the effectiveness and feasibility of Kinect-based upper extremity rehabilitation on functional performance in chronic stroke survivors. Methods: This was a single cohort pre-post test study. Participants (N = 10; mean age = 62.5 ± 9.06) engaged in Kinect-based training three times a week for four to five weeks in a university laboratory. To simulate a clinic to home transfer condition, individualized guidance was given to participants at the initial three sessions followed by independent usage. Outcomes included Fugl-Meyer assessment of upper extremity, Wolf Motor Function Test, Stroke Impact Scale, Confidence of Arm and Hand Movement and Active Range of Motion. Participant experience was assessed using a structured questionnaire and a semi-structured interview. Results. Improvement was found in Fugl-Meyer assessment scores (p = 0.001), Wolf Motor Function Test, (p = 0.008), Active Range of Motion (p < 0.05) and Stroke Impact Scale-Hand function (p = 0.016). Clinically important differences were found in Fugl-Meyer assessment scores (Δ = 5.70 ± 3.47) and Wolf Motor Function Test (Δ Time = −4.45 ± 6.02; ∆ Functional Ability Scores = 0.29 ± 0.31). All participants could use the system independently and recognized the importance of exercise individualization by the therapist. Conclusions. The Kinect-based UE rehabilitation provided clinically important functional improvements to our study participants.

Keywords

• virtual reality
• arm
• hemiparesis
• exercise
• gaming system
• assistive technology