VirHab - A virtual reality system for treatment of chronic pain and disability

In recent years several lines of research have provided scientific evidence for the therapeutic value of non-invasive methods based on visual feedback and motor imagery. Clinical studies have demonstrated their potential to benefit some patient populations such as cerebrovascular accident (CVA) and complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS). This type of intervention appears appropriate for implementation using virtual reality (VR) technology which can provide the required stimuli. The present study proposes a new VR system based on a motion capture platform, and is currently targeted at treating pain and impairment of upper extremities. The system employs image processing algorithms so the patient sees himself on a screen within a virtual environment. His impaired arm, however, is replaced by a virtual arm. Thus upon making small movements of his paretic arm, he can view his image performing healthy full-range movements with the virtual arm. We hypothesize that this would facilitate plastic changes in the brain, leading to reduced pain and improved function of the impaired limb.