Improving Upper Extremity Motor Skills in Girls with Rett Syndrome Using Virtual Reality

Abstract

Introduction: Rett Syndrome is a genetic disorder that limits a girl's ability to use her upper extremities for daily activities, such as dressing and playing. One possible intervention to improve upper extremity function in this population is virtual reality, which can be used to increase activity demands during therapy sessions.Objectives: To determine the feasibility of using internet-based virtual reality intervention for Rett Syndrome (RTT-IVR), to decrease hand wringing/mouthing and increase hand and arm movements away from the midline by identifying attributes and limitations to the proposed intervention. Materials and Methods:Using FAAST Software and Microsoft Kinect sensor, RTT-IVR was trialed with 6 girls with RTT. Upper extremity movements were used to play free Internet games as means of increasing repetitions and purposeful arm movements. Data regarding attributes and limitations of the RTT-IVR intervention were collected via observation and post-session parent interviews.Results: Interviews and observation revealed successful game play when games were motivating, clearly established cause and effect, and matched level of cognitive ability of the participant. Limitations include technological glitches regarding Kinect sensor sensitivity and identifying appropriate games for each participant's interests and abilities.Conclusion: Internet based virtual reality interventions for girls with RTT should be highly individualized to increase motivation and success of intervention.

Evidence-Based Physical Therapy for Individuals with Rett Syndrome: A Systematic Review

“…In their 2016 case series, Mraz and colleagues analyzed the feasibility of using an internet-based virtual reality intervention (FAAST software and Microsoft Kinetect sensor) for six girls with RTT [ 54 ]. The results showed decrease of hand stereotypes and increase of hand and arm movements away from the midline during intervention.…”

“…The 2017 study by McAmis et al showed that the virtual reality system named VR_Color, specifically tailored for people with RTT, was able to decrease the characteristic repetitive hand movements and to increase the use of hands in skilled functions [ 55 ]. Moreover, this intervention proved to be successful in severe RTT cases, differently from the FAAST system, which has not been tested in the treatment of such patients [ 54 ].…”