Upper extremity function assessment test using virtual environment technique in stroke survivors

Purpose: The objective assessment of the upper limbs of stroke survivors is challenging. Serious game-based assessments may allow for an objective assessment of this population. The present work aims to investigate the validity of the metrics provided by the Upper Extremity Smart Exercises-Innovative Treatment (USE-IT) assessment method for upper limb rehabilitation. Materials and methods: Thirty-three stroke survivors were included in this study. We assessed the stroke survivors using The Fugl-Meyer Upper Extremity Scale (FM-UE), The Wolf Motor Function Test (WMFT), The Action Research Arm Test (ARAT), ABILHAND, ACTIVLIM, and the USE-IT. Validity was assessed by examining the correlation of the USE-IT metrics with the clinical scales. Results: All clinical scales and the Global Reaching Map total score, one of the two outputs of the USE-IT assessment method, were found to be moderately correlated (|r| = 0.52-0.69) (p < .05). The other outputs of the USE-IT assessment method, the Local Reaching Map total score, showed a correlation with the Fugl-Meyer Assessment Upper Arm (FM-UA), The Action Research Arm Test (ARAT) Grip, and the Wolf Motor Function Test (WMFT) parameters (|r| = 0.34-0.38) (p < .05). Conclusions: This study showed that the USE-IT assessment is well correlated with commonly used clinical scales for the upper limb motor function in stroke survivors. Therefore, the USE-IT is a valid game-based system for assessing upper limb impairment in stroke survivors.