Analysis of the effects of therapy with virtual electronic games in the quality of life, functional independence, balance and gait speed in hemiparetic individuals

Abstract

Most of the patients with stroke present functional limitations, reduced gait, and balance disorders. These symptoms in turn influence the quality of life of patients. Studies have shown that therapy with Virtual Electronic Games may assist the process of rehabilitation of patients with stroke. The objective of this study is to examine the effects of therapy with the Virtual Electronic Games on quality of life, functional independence, balance, and gait speed in hemiparetic individuals. Will participate in this study 10 individuals who have suffered a stroke at least six months ago and who fill in the criteria for inclusion. The participants are going to be assessed before and after the intervention. For the assessment of the quality of life, it is going to be used the scale translated to Portuguese of Stroke Specific Quality of Life Scale (SSQOL). For the assessment of the balance, it is going to be used the Berg Balance Scale (BBS). The analysis of gait speed is going to be evaluated by the 10 meters Walk Test. Furthermore, for the analysis of functional independence, it is going to be used the Barthel Index, specific to individuals who have suffered strokes. The treatment program will consist of 10 sessions using the Xbox 360 Kinect for 60 minutes each session and frequency of twice a week. The games are going to be selected according to individual interest, considering the requirement to perform functional movements. Blood pressure (BP) and heart rate (HR) will be monitored at the beginning and in the end of each session. After the program's conclusion, the individuals are going to be evaluated considering the quality of life, balance, gait speed, and functional independence. (AU)