A home-based neurorehabilitation system for children with upper extreimity impairments

Abstract

The objective of this paper is to introduce a novel low-cost human-computer interface (HCI) system for home-based massed practice for children with upper limb impairment due to brain injury. The proposed system targets motions around the wrist. Successful massed practice, a type of neurorehabilitation, may be of value for children with brain injury because it facilitates impaired limb use. Use of automated, home-based systems could provide a practical means for massed practice. However, the optimal strategy to deliver and monitor home-based massed practice is still unclear. We integrated a motion sensor, video games, and HCI software technologies to create a useful home-based massed practice at targeted joints. The system records joint angle and number of movements using a low-cost custom hand-held sensor. The sensor acts as an input device to play video games. We demonstrated the system’s functionality and provided preliminary observations on usage by children with brain injury and typically developing children, including joint motions and muscle activation.