Innovative virtual reality application based on proprioceptive 'facilitation and inhibition' to improve upper limb...

We present a comprehensive software system developed for an innovative virtual reality application that leverages the principles of proprioceptive 'facilitation and inhibition' to enhance upper limb function, along with the results of a prospective, feasibility and proof-of-concept study conducted in people with multiple sclerosis. The system tracks upper limb movement at two locations, as well as the movement of the chest and head. Each tracked point continuously provides real-time spatial position and orientation data to the system. Participants engage in physical therapy based on the principles of proprioceptive 'facilitation and inhibition', interspersed with selected relaxation games, while their performance - relative to predefined exercise templates - is continuously monitored. All session data is also stored for retrospective analysis. The system delivers real-time performance evaluation to the therapist, along with live feedback and stereoscopic 3D guidance for the participant, thereby enhancing engagement in movement. Preliminary measurements indicate promising results, particularly in terms of improved gross motor function compared to the same physiotherapy without the virtual reality component.