Article

Acquired brain injury (ABI) is associated with significant
cognitive, behavioural, psychological and physical impairment. Hence, it has been
important to leverage assessment approaches in rehabilitation by using current
and emerging technologies, including virtual reality (VR). A number of VR
rehabilitation programmes have been designed in recent years, mainly to improve
upper limb function. However, before this technology gains widespread use,
evaluation of the scientific evidence supporting VR-assisted rehabilitation is
needed. The present review aimed to assess the rationale, design and methodology
of research investigating the clinical impact of VR on ABI upper-limb
rehabilitation. RESEARCH DESIGN: A total of 22 studies were surveyed using a
Cochrane-style review. RESEARCH METHODS: Studies were classified on a number of
key criteria: theoretical bases and aims, sample populations and recruitment
procedures, characteristics of the VR systems, evaluation design including
control procedures and statistical analysis of results. Studies were rated using
the Downs and Black (DB) scale. RESULTS: The review demonstrated that few studies
used a conventional randomized controlled study design. Moderate support was
shown for both teacher-animation and game-like systems. CONCLUSION: While
VR-assisted rehabilitation shows early promise, clinicians are advised to be
cautious about adopting these technologies before adequate data is available.

Langue : ANGLAIS