A New Architecture for Customizable Exergames: User Evaluation for Different Neuromuscular Disorders

Area of Science:

• Rehabilitation Medicine
• Game Design
• Human-Computer Interaction

Background:

• Exergames offer potential for engaging physical rehabilitation.
• Tailoring exergames to individual patient needs is crucial for efficacy.
• Current exergame platforms may lack modularity and adaptability for diverse clinical populations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a modular and customizable exergame design framework.
• To integrate tailored physical exercises within a motivating narrative.
• To assess the feasibility and user experience of the exergame in patients with neuromuscular disorders.

Main Methods:

• Development of a modular exergame platform with motion capturing capabilities.
• Integration of a therapeutic web platform (Blexer-med) for exercise configuration.
• Evaluation involving 14 patients with varying neuromuscular disorders, grouped by strength and autonomy.

Main Results:

• The exergame demonstrated feasibility across different patient groups, including the most vulnerable.
• Patients reported high levels of fun and satisfaction, driven by the narrative and scoring system.
• Average usage was 2.5 sessions/week (20 min/session), with exercise comprising ~50% of game time.

Conclusions:

• The modular exergame approach is feasible for individuals with neuromuscular disorders.
• The system provides a motivating and adaptable platform for therapeutic exercise.
• Further refinement of 3D exercises is recommended to maximize engagement and fun.