Enhanced Visual Feedback Using Immersive VR Affects Decision Making Regarding Hand Use With a Simulated Impaired Limb

The long-term effects of impairment have a negative impact on the quality life stroke patients in terms not using affected limb even after some recovery (i.e., learned non-use). Immersive virtual reality (IVR) has been introduced as new approach for treatment rehabilitation. We propose an IVR-based therapeutic to incorporate positive reinforcement components motor coordination opposed constraint-induced movement therapy (CIMT). This study aimed investigate effect IVR-reinforced physical that incorporates coordination. To simulate upper function loss patients, wrist weight was attached dominant hand participant. Participants were asked choose their right or left reach toward randomly allocated target. image reinforced by visual feedback participants, is, participants perceived if moving greater degree than what occurring everyday life. found use simulated increased enhancement intervention, and importantly, maintained gradual withdrawal amplification. results suggest within IVR could induce decision making usage.