Adapted sailing teaching methodology using vsail-trainer simulator as rehabilitation therapy. A feasibility study

The Journal of Spinal Cord Medicine, 2024 · DOI: 10.1080/10790268.2023.2228585 · Published: January 1, 2024

Spinal Cord Injury Assistive Technology Rehabilitation

Simple Explanation

This study explores using a sailing simulator to teach adapted sailing to people with spinal cord injuries (SCI) as a form of rehabilitation therapy. The research aimed to create a teaching protocol using the simulator and assess its impact on learning, how hard the participants felt they were working, and their heart rate. The results showed that participants improved their sailing skills, as indicated by boat speed, heel, and VMG, and they also reported feeling less exertion after the training program.

Study Duration

6 weeks

Participants

6 adults with Spinal Cord Injury

Evidence Level

Not specified

Key Findings

1
Participants showed improvements in boat speed, heel, and Velocity Made Good (VMG) after the intervention.
2
The time taken to complete the regatta course and the time spent to tack were reduced after the sailing protocol.
3
Participants reported a decrease in the score on the effort perception scale after the virtual sailing program.

Research Summary

This study designed and tested a teaching protocol for adapted sailing using a virtual reality simulator for individuals with spinal cord injuries (SCI). The results indicated that the participants improved their sailing skills (boat speed, heel, VMG) and reduced their perceived exertion after the 6-week training program. The study suggests that this methodology can serve as a guide for teaching sailing to SCI patients and others interested in the sport, providing autonomy and mobility in a simulated environment.

Practical Implications

Rehabilitation Tool

The sailing simulator can be used as a tool for rehabilitation for individuals with SCI, enhancing their therapy and recovery process.

Adapted Sailing Program

The study provides a basis for developing structured adapted sailing programs for SCI patients and other populations with disabilities.

Autonomy and Mobility

The simulator provides individuals with SCI a sense of autonomy and mobility, which may be lacking in their daily lives.