Feasibility of an Exoskeleton-Based Interactive Video Game System for Upper Extremity Burn Contractures

Abstract

Background: Burn contractures are common and difficult to treat. Measuring continuous joint motion would inform the assessment of contracture interventions; however, it is not standard clinical practice. This study examines use of an interactive gaming system to measure continuous joint motion data.

Objective: To assess the usability of an exoskeleton-based interactive gaming system in the rehabilitation of upper extremity burn contractures.

Design: Feasibility study.

Setting: Eight subjects with a history of burn injury and upper extremity contractures were recruited from the outpatient clinic of a regional inpatient rehabilitation facility.

Methods: Subjects used an exoskeleton-based interactive gaming system to play 4 different video games. Continuous joint motion data were collected at the shoulder and elbow during game play.

Main outcome measures: Visual analog scale for engagement, difficulty and comfort. Angular range of motion by subject, joint, and game.

Results: The study population had an age of 43 ± 16 (mean ± standard deviation) years and total body surface area burned range of 10%-90%. Subjects reported satisfactory levels of enjoyment, comfort, and difficulty. Continuous joint motion data demonstrated variable characteristics by subject, plane of motion, and game.

Conclusions: This study demonstrates the feasibility of use of an exoskeleton-based interactive gaming system in the burn population. Future studies are needed that examine the efficacy of tailoring interactive video games to the specific joint impairments of burn survivors.