Monday, February 28, 2011

ABSTRACT: Home based computer-assisted upper limb exercise for young children with cerebral palsy: A feasibility study investigating impact on motor control and functional outcome.
Weightman A, Preston N, Levesley M, Holt R, Mon-Williams M, Clarke M, Cozens AJ, Bhakta B.
School of Mechanical Engineering, The University of Leeds.

OBJECTIVE: We developed a home-based rehabilitation exercise system incorporating a powered joystick linked to a computer game, to enable children with arm paresis to participate in independent home exercise. We investigated the feasibility and impact of using the system in the home setting.

CONCLUSION: Some improvements in self-reported function and quality of movement are observed. This pilot study suggests that the system could be used to augment home-based arm exercise in an engaging way for children with cerebral palsy, although a controlled clinical trial is required to establish clinical efficacy. The feasibility of this technology has been demonstrated.

Read the full abstract here.

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