Although ‘so-called’ chronic stroke patients are often told no further recovery is possible, Professor Nick Ward runs an upper limb rehabilitation programme that shows that intensive high dose conventional rehab is effective even years after stroke.
In this trial, researchers will compare this conventional treatment to one that involves patients being asked to control the movements of an on-screen dolphin using their affected arm, in an immersive gaming experience (the MindPod Dolphin). In this way, patients are encouraged to move for fun in a way that increases the amount but also the quality of movement.
“Patients can continue to improve beyond the cut-off, and the study will confirm whether the game can help deliver good quality therapy. If we continue to give treatment, we can help people achieve their maximum potential. That’s going to help them get back to their work, it’s going to reduce their need for carers, it’s going to help them achieve the things they want to want to do want to enjoy in their life.” Professor Nick Ward, Professor of Clinical Neurology, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology.
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- The MindPod Dolphin. Courtesy of MindMaze