EEG Guided Immersive VR Robotic Interface Rehabilitation Study for Stroke Survivors with Upper Arm Paralysis
York University, Kinesiology and Health Science
In this study, we examine whether rehabilitation of lost arm function is enhanced with the use of a prototype that uses a combination of a mixed-reality Virtual Reality (VR) system (for augmented visual scene presentation) and a brain-wave driven robotic exoskeleton (Brain Computer Interface, or BCI, for enhanced biofeedback and limb motion). This system uses a non-invasive form of BCI by reading brain wave signals through electroencephalography (EEG). EEG recordings will be used to allow the participant to interact with the VR system. To generate appropriate EEG activity, participants will be asked to attempt to perform specific mental activities (i.e. motor imagery), related to the desired motion or to observe the intended direction of the desired motion. If the specific EEG patterns associated with this activity can be detected by the software, a robotic exoskeleton will aid in moving the participant's arm to perform the desired motion.
Your Impact
This study is designed to help patients, who have upper limb paralysis due to stroke, create and strengthen new connections in the brain to help move their arm again.
Eligibility Criteria
All genders
18 to 80 years old
Moderate degree of paralysis due to acute and subacute primary stroke
No arm spasticity (small amount might be eligible)
No visual impairments
No neurological disorders (eg. Parkinson’s disease, schizophrenia, etc.)
No aphasia
Must be able to independently transfer onto a stand alone chair (or have a caregiver who can assist)
Study Tasks
Participant Screening (cognitive evaluation)
Physiotherapy Assessments (to determine degree of paralysis)
Practice Sessions (to learn how to use the mixed-reality VR system and EEG driven robotic exoskeleton)
Rehabilitation Sessions (using the mixed-reality VR system and EEG driven robotic exoskeleton for about 1 hour 2x per week)
Short Interviews (to evaluate user experience throughout the study)
Photography, Video-Recording and Voice-Recording (of the rehabilitation sessions and experiential interviews)
Ethics
This study has been approved by York University Research Ethics Board (e2019 - 284)
Keywords
Activity and Time
Health and Wellness
Intervention
Weekdays
1 hour(s) - 2 hour(s) per session
15 session(s)
Compensation
Up to $100
Study Address
400 Kipling Avenue Toronto, Ontario, Canada, M8V 3L1
Earn $100