Grant: CIHR New Investigator

THE PROBLEM: Stroke is a serious condition that negatively affects patients and families. Approximately 2 out of 3 stroke survivors continue to experience weakness affecting their daily living. Rehabilitation (ie physiotherapy) involves methods to restore body movements back to normal. However, rehabilitation can be boring, costly, and require transportation to special centers. Hence, we need new rehabilitation techniques to improve the life of stroke survivors. Interestingly, virtual reality games allow people to experience and handle life-like situations, created by a computer system. This technology (Nintendo Wii) is less costly, widely available, and can possibly be used in patients homes. Moreover, it uses important concepts in rehabilitation, and may improve arm and leg movement after a stroke. However, there is not much information available on this topic. OBJECTIVE: The goal of this study is to determine whether virtual reality technology, using the Wii gaming system, is beneficial in improving arm movement after a stroke. PROPOSED RESEARCH: In a recent small pilot study, we showed that virtual reality using Nintendo Wii is safe and doable. We are now proposing a larger study, including 7 rehabilitation centers in Ontario called 'EVREST Multicentre'. Participants will be randomly selected (like the flip of a coin) to receive either 10 sessions of Wii, or 10 sessions of recreational activity. This study was just funded by HSFC $245,924 and OSN-MOHLTC $85,900. APPLICABILITY: Usual rehabilitation has many drawbacks and provides few benefits. Hence, 'EVREST Multicentre' is a low-cost study which may help improve the method of treating stroke patients. The results of this study may improve the disability and quality of life of stroke survivors by providing a new, easily available, and less costly alternative in rehabilitation. In addition, it may be useful for other disabling diseases such as Multiple Sclerosis, Parkinson, or Rheumatoid Arthritis.