Virtual reality games show promise in improving motor skills for patients with genetic ataxia

While individuals with genetic ataxia generally perform worse than healthy controls in virtual reality-based motor tasks, using a more complex interface first may help improve their performance in subsequent tasks using a simpler interface, according to a study.

The study enrolled 17 participants with various forms of genetic ataxia, between the ages of 21 and 64 years, and 16 age-matched healthy controls. Researchers utilized the MoveHero software, a virtual gaming platform designed to promote reaching and coordination activities, commonly used in rehabilitation. Participants performed the tasks using a webcam-based motion tracker and a touchscreen.

Participants with ataxia were divided into subgroups based on the sequence in which they used the interfaces—either starting with the webcam and switching to the touchscreen, or vice versa. Motor performance was assessed using several metrics, including absolute error (AE), variable error (VE), the number of successful hits, and anticipation errors.

• Participants with genetic ataxia showed poorer motor performance compared to controls, regardless of the in virtual reality interface used.
• Ataxia participants had higher absolute and variable errors, fewer successful hits, and greater anticipation errors during the tasks.
• The order of interface use impacted performance: participants who started with the webcam interface performed better on subsequent touchscreen tasks.
• Using the more complex webcam interface first seemed to enhance motor learning and skill transfer, suggesting a potential benefit in rehabilitation programs.

These findings underscore the potential of integrating virtual reality interventions into traditional rehabilitation programs for individuals with genetic ataxia. While the touchscreen interface is easier to use, the added complexity of the webcam interface may serve as a valuable training tool, helping patients develop better motor control and transfer these skills to other activities.

Reference
Graciani Z, Moraes ÍAP, Alberissi CAO, et al. The effect of different interfaces during virtual game practice on motor performance of individuals with genetic ataxia: A cross-sectional study. PLoS One. 2024;19(11):e0312705. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0312705. PMID: 39485822; PMCID: PMC11530066.