Virtual reality mirror therapy using “etee” to improve finger dexterity in post-stroke survivors: A pilot study

Background and Aims: Mirror Therapy (MT) can be effective in improving hemiparesis. Intense repetitive exercises appear key in motor recovery; however, it is difficult to keep patients motivated to maintain the required intensity. Virtual reality systems such as Etee generate the perspective of realistic feedback, as with MT, but in a game-like environment which could increase motivation and therefore increase the likelihood of attaining the intensity needed for measurable change in motor function. The aim of this study is to provide preliminary evidence of effectiveness & feasibility of using a Virtual Reality Mirror therapy (VRMT) to improve finger dexterity in post-stroke patients.

Methods: Twenty-four post-stroke participants with hemiparesis will be randomly allocated into three groups. Group 1 will use VRMT; group 2 will use the Nine-hole peg test (9HPT) and group 3 will receive nothing. Participants will use their intervention for 45 minutes a day, 4 days a week for 4 weeks. Effectiveness will be measured using 9HPT pre-and postintervention phase. Feasibility will be assessed via adherence to therapy and the Usability System Scale. Motivation will be measured using the Intrinsic Motivation Inventory (IMI).

Results: The effectiveness study will be analysed by a 2×3 mixed ANOVA. The IMI will be assessed for normality and analysed using an Independent T-Test or equivalent if not normally distributed.

Conclusions: The results from this pilot study will provide us with preliminary evidence of the effectiveness and feasibility of using VRMT in the post-stroke population and to gain a better understanding on how VR technologies can be used in rehabilitation.