First results of a comparison between gaming and equal intensity conventional training to improve arm function after chronic stroke

The use of new technologies in rehabilitation, such as virtual reality (VR) and/or gaming, is promising to enable patients to practice intensively in a motivating way. In the present study changes in arm function after conventional reach training are compared to reach training within a gaming environment of equal intensity in 18 chronic stroke patients. Fugl-Meyer scores showed equal increases between both groups, suggesting that games are promising as a tool to enable more independent training without the need for continuous one-to-one therapist supervision in clinical practice