Active Video Games and Low-Cost Virtual Reality: An Ideal Therapeutic Modality for Children With Physical...

Area of Science:

• Rehabilitation Medicine
• Pediatric Physical Therapy
• Digital Health Technologies

Background:

• Coronavirus (COVID-19) guidelines have interrupted essential rehabilitation services.
• Children with physical disabilities, such as cerebral palsy, face challenges accessing consistent physical therapy.
• Maintaining physical activity gains during service interruptions is crucial for this population.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore active video games and low-cost virtual reality as viable telerehabilitation solutions.
• To provide strategies for clinicians to integrate these technologies into practice during a pandemic.
• To address the need for continued physical rehabilitation for children with disabilities.

Main Methods:

• Utilizing synchronous or asynchronous telerehabilitation formats with therapist collaboration.
• Incorporating active video games and low-cost virtual reality into individualized at-home treatment plans.
• Leveraging the motivating and ludic features of these technologies for pediatric engagement.

Main Results:

• Active video games and virtual reality demonstrate potential as effective therapeutic interventions for pediatric physical disabilities.
• These technologies facilitate high repetitions of movement in a challenging, multi-modal training environment.
• They offer a unique opportunity to foster engaged practice beyond typical household activities.

Conclusions:

• Active video games and low-cost virtual reality are promising for at-home rehabilitation during the COVID-19 pandemic.
• These digital tools can help mitigate the impact of interrupted rehabilitation services.
• Clinicians can adopt these technologies to ensure continuity of care and maintain patient progress.