A novel use of virtual reality in the treatment of cognitive and motor deﬁcit in spinal cord injury: A case report

Medicine, 2018 · DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1097/MD.0000000000013559 · Published: December 1, 2018

Spinal Cord Injury Assistive Technology Neurorehabilitation

Simple Explanation

This study explores using virtual reality (VR) combined with standard cognitive training to help a patient with spinal cord injury (SCI) who has both motor and cognitive problems. The patient showed improvements in cognitive abilities, reduced anxiety and depression, and better motor skills and balance after the VR-based treatment. The findings suggest that VR could be a useful tool for rehabilitation in neurological conditions, especially for those with SCI who have both physical and mental impairments.

Study Duration

6 Months

Participants

1 patient with incomplete cervical SCI

Evidence Level

Level 4; Case Report

Key Findings

1
Significant improvement was observed in different cognitive domains after the combined therapeutic approach with VRRS training.
2
The study found a notable reduction of anxiety and depressive symptoms following the combined therapeutic approach.
3
Motor performance and balance improvement were observed after the combined approach, in both static and dynamic control.

Research Summary

This case report investigated the impact of virtual reality (VR) rehabilitation on a patient with spinal cord injury (SCI) experiencing both cognitive and motor deficits. The patient underwent standard cognitive training and physiotherapy, followed by a combined approach incorporating virtual reality rehabilitation system (VRRS). Results indicated significant improvements in cognitive function, mood, and motor skills, suggesting VR as a promising tool for SCI rehabilitation.

Practical Implications

Rehabilitation Tool

VR can be a valuable tool in promoting better functional outcomes, also in patients with SCI, when coupled to traditional rehabilitation.

Neuropsychological Evaluation

A complete neuropsychological evaluation should be performed in all the patients attending a neurorehabilitation ward.

Home-Based Rehabilitation

Some VR systems pursue home-based rehabilitation by prolonging the time spent to perform the exercises in terms of cost and effectiveness of the intervention itself.

Study Limitations

1
Findings come from a single case report
2
Cognitive deficits in SCI individuals may be underestimated
3
Unable to state if cognitive deficit pre-existed the accident or total anesthesia

Your Feedback

Was this summary helpful?

Back to Spinal Cord Injury