The Effects of Virtual Reality Based Rehabilitation on Upper Extremity Function in a Child with Cerebral Palsy: A Case Report

Abstract

Aim

This case report was designed to assess the efficacy of virtual reality (VR) rehabilitation on improving upper extremity function for a child with spastic hemiplegic cerebral palsy.

Methods

In addition to conventional therapies completed three times per week, the participant engaged in virtual reality rehabilitation with the Neofect Smart Kids five to seven days per week for six weeks totaling just over twelve hours of intervention time. Outcome measures were administered pre-intervention, post-intervention, and 6-weeks post-intervention.

Results

Varying levels of improvement in motor function, quality of movement, and functional use were observed during intervention evidenced by improved scores on the following standardized assessments: Peabody Developmental Motor Scales, Second Edition; the Quality of Upper Extremity Skills Test; and the Pediatric Evaluation and Disability Inventory—Computer Adaptive Test. The participant maintained improvements in motor skills at 6-weeks post intervention, however, the quality of his movements and overall frequency of use with his affected upper extremity decreased in the 6-weeks following termination of intervention.

Conclusions

Even though the results are not generalizable, the VR intervention for this child allowed for greater movement repetition and improved functional upper extremity use.

Keywords:

• Cerebral palsy
• computer-based interventions
• gaming technology
• virtual environments
• handwriting
• prehension
• upper extremity function

Acknowledgments

We would like to thank the participant and his family for participating as well as Neofect and Lauren Sheehan, OTD, OTR/L for lending the Smart Kids device.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.

Funding

No funding associated with the study.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Rachael Mirich

Dr. Rachael Mirich is a Pediatric Occupational Therapist with AOTA Board Certification in Pediatrics.

Anastasia Kyvelidou

Dr. Anastasia Kyvelidou is an Assistant Professor in the Physical Therapy department at Creighton University.

Bobbi S. Greiner

Dr. Bobbi S. Greiner is an Assistant Professor in the Occupation Therapy department at Creighton University, director of Occupation Therapy Fellowships and board certified in Pediatrics through AOTA.