Effects of adding interactive videogames to conventional rehabilitation program on radiological progression and upper extremity motor function in patients with hemiplegic stroke: a preliminary study

ObjectivesTo investigate the effects of adding interactive videogames to conventional rehabilitation programmes on radiological progression and upper extremity functional status.Patients and MethodsA total of 18 patients with hemiplegic stroke were randomized into two groups as conventional rehabilitation (control) group (n = 9), and the conventional rehabilitation + interactive videogames (intervention) group (n = 9). Each group received a 4-week program (5 days/week). Radiological progression (diffuse tensor imaging), and upper extremity functional status (upper extremity motor functioning part of the Fugl Meyer Assessment, self-care part of the Functional Independence Measure (FIM), and Motor Activity Log) were assessed at baseline and 4-week later.ResultsWhile no changes were detected in radiological status in the intervention group (p > 0.05), some regions on the affected side were improved significantly in the control group (p < 0.05). Total upper extremity motor functioning part of the Fugl Meyer Assessment scores and the self-care part of the FIM scores significantly improved in both groups (p < 0.05). No differences were detected in the amount of changes between groups (p > 0.05).ConclusionAccording to our results, adding videogames to a conventional rehabilitation program does not seem enhancing the radiological progression or the functional status of the upper extremities.