Putting Virtual Rehab for Stroke Patients to the Test

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Researchers at the University of East Anglia have been putting virtual reality rehabilitation for stroke survivors to the test.

Researchers at the University of East Anglia have been putting virtual reality rehabilitation for stroke survivors to the test.

They have created a new gaming platform which uses low cost videogame technology to improve the lives of stroke patients suffering from complex neurological syndromes caused by their stroke.

And they have been working with stroke survivors and their carers to see how they get on with using the new technology.

It is hoped that this type of technology, which can be used in patients’ own homes, could prove particularly beneficial for rehabilitation during periods of lockdown, social distancing and shielding – caused by the Covid-19 pandemic.

Read more at University of East Anglia

Image: The specially designed games included a boxing game where the player spars with a virtual partner, 'Bullseyes and Barriers' where the player hits or avoids targets and 'In the Kitchen' which sees the player search for objects in a realistic kitchen layout. They also tested a game which involves lifting rods on a table while a portable low cost motion sensor tracks the patient's movements. These balancing exercises are targeted to improve spatial neglect. (Credit: University of East Anglia)