Introduction to HABIT Virtual Reality Camp
Entering his teenage years, Connor Strobel began to seek out traditional therapies for his cerebral palsy less and fewer appealing. The games and challenges presented by those sessions didn’t pack the identical luster. But two years ago, Strobel found Hand Arm Bimanual Intensive Training Virtual Reality camp on the Munroe-Meyer Institute, which modified his outlook on therapy.
What is HABIT Virtual Reality Camp?
The camp uses virtual reality gaming to attain similar results to traditional HABIT camp, which is designed to permit children with cerebral palsy and other conditions to work on using each hands to finish a task in the shape of play. Strobel, now 15, doesn’t see the camp as just one other therapy session. “I feel like I’m in a dream,” he said during his first session of camp. “I get up every morning and it’s time for video games.”
Brain-Computer Interface (BCI) Technology
This summer, Strobel tackled one other 10-day session at MMI — this time with an added element. Strobel was one in every of 4 campers to participate using brain-computer interface (BCI) technology. By wearing a sensor cap, camp facilitators could see the regions of Strobel’s brain and will track the intention to maneuver his upper limbs. They could then deliver gentle stimulation to Strobel’s weaker arm, encouraging movement. The stimulation is delivered as a tingling sensation, much like the pins and needles feeling of your hands or feet falling asleep.
How BCI Technology Works
To be effective, campers have to repeat the identical motion again and again. The virtual reality element is essential in helping them from losing interest or fatigued. The goal of using BCI is to see higher connection between the brain and the muscles. “We need a healthy level of challenge — each physically and mentally — to get them to the following level from where they began at camp,” said Ahad Behboodi, PhD, assistant professor within the University of Nebraska at Omaha’s Department of Biomechanics.
Measuring Success
The MMI team will compare results of campers through the BCI-VR camp and the VR camp alone. They measure and compare how each camps may also help participants with using their arms and hands, equivalent to bimanual coordination, dexterity, and participation in each day activities. “We use clinical measures to see how they use each hands together,” said Andrea Cunha, PhD, assistant professor within the MMI Department of Physical Therapy. “Our goal just isn’t only to be sure that we’re getting similar or higher results, but additionally to grasp how we will best support children.”
Real-Life Benefits
Individuals with cerebral palsy often have a weaker side. Camp is designed to get participants using each hands equally through the virtual reality games, but additionally in making snacks and playing on the playground. Strobel has gained more independence within the two years between HABIT VR camp sessions. He can tackle on a regular basis tasks, equivalent to using a shower chair or combing his own hair. His mother, Heidi Reagan, credits HABIT camp with teaching him tips on how to higher use his right hand and boosting his confidence.
Conclusion
The HABIT Virtual Reality Camp has been a game-changer for Connor Strobel and other participants. The combination of virtual reality gaming and brain-computer interface technology has made therapy more engaging and effective. As Strobel said, “It’s a very good workout. It’s form of its own therapy. They work my butt off 100%.” The camp has not only helped participants improve their physical abilities but additionally provided a way of community and reference to peers. With the support of the National Institutes of Health, the MMI team will proceed to refine and expand this system, offering latest opportunities for youngsters with cerebral palsy to thrive.
