Semi-Immersive Virtual Reality Exercise Therapy for Upper Limb Rehabilitation in Patients With Spinal Cord Injury Using the Leap Motion Controller

Cureus, 2024 · DOI: 10.7759/cureus.52261 · Published: January 14, 2024

Simple Explanation

This study explores using virtual reality (VR) with a Leap Motion controller to help a young woman with tetraplegia (weakness in all four limbs due to a spinal cord injury) regain hand function. The patient used games that involved finger and hand movements tracked by the Leap Motion controller. These exercises aimed to improve her hand strength and range of motion. The results showed improvements in her hand function, grip strength, and range of motion, suggesting that this VR therapy could be a helpful tool for hand rehabilitation after spinal cord injury.

Study Duration

Approximately 3 months

Participants

One 23-year-old female patient with incomplete tetraplegia

Evidence Level

Case Report

Key Findings

1
The patient exhibited substantial enhancements in hand function, range of motion, and muscle power throughout the intervention.
2
The Sollerman test scores improved from 52/80 (right hand) and 60/80 (left hand) to 73/80 and 75/80, respectively, over the three-month period.
3
The Medical Research Council (MRC) score for the right upper limb increased from 2/5 at admission to 4/5 at discharge.

Research Summary

This case report presents the use of semi-immersive virtual reality exercise therapy, using the Leap Motion controller, for upper limb rehabilitation in a 23-year-old female patient with incomplete tetraplegia due to a spinal cord injury. The intervention involved customized video game exercises designed to enhance hand function, range of motion, and muscle power, with the Leap Motion controller tracking hand and finger movements in real-time. The study outcomes suggest that Leap Motion-related exercises can be beneficial in treating hand functional loss and weakness, supporting the need for further large-scale studies to validate these findings.

Practical Implications

Rehabilitation Tool

Leap Motion technology offers a cost-effective and uncomplicated approach to upper limb rehabilitation, potentially reducing the need for expensive robotic systems.

Patient Engagement

Gamified exercises facilitated by Leap Motion can stimulate patient engagement and adherence to therapy, fostering a more enjoyable and effective recovery process.

Further Research

The positive outcomes of this case study warrant further research and the development of protocols for applying Leap Motion technology in rehabilitation settings, particularly for patients with spinal cord injuries.

Study Limitations

1
The study is limited to a single case report, which restricts the generalizability of the findings.
2
Not every patient can achieve favorable outcomes when utilizing VR technology for rehabilitation due to specific prerequisites.
3
Limitations arise from the necessity of developing software and procuring essential equipment like the Leap Motion device and personal computer.

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