Video Game-based Therapy for Arm Weakness In Progressive Multiple Sclerosis

Video Game-based Therapy for Arm Weakness In Progressive Multiple Sclerosis

Participants will receive intensive therapy through a video game in their own homes for 1 month. The game is operated by movements of the body (no controller needed) and acts like a virtual therapist. Participants will agree to play the game for 30 hours. They will also receive 4 home visits from a therapist designed to increase use of their arm for daily activities that are important to them. Participants will also receive a smart watch that will measure use of their weaker arm and alert them when their arm is not participating in activities. Arm strength and function will be measured before and after the therapy program.

Randomized waitlist control trial. One group will receive treatment immediately (50%) and the other group will receive treatment following a three-week delay (50%). Group 1 will be assessed by physical/occupational therapists and rehabilitation psychologists (blinded to treatment phase) before and after the virtual gaming treatment. Group 2 will receive two baseline assessments (baseline followed by three weeks of usual and customary care and then another baseline before starting the gaming treatment), and again after three weeks of virtual gaming treatment.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Patients who have progressive multiple sclerosis resulting in upper extremity motor impairment.
• Have the ability to comprehend and participate in basic elements of the therapy.
• Have substantial non-use in the more affected upper extremity.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Are currently participating in other experimental trials.
• Are currently participating in additional upper extremity therapy.
• Experienced relapse within the past 6 months.
• Too frail to undergo intensive rehabilitation,
• Those with serious, uncontrolled medical problems.