More on VR + CP

The idea of using virtual reality as therapy for kids with cerebral palsy isn't new. Psychologists like Dr. Denise Reid of the University of Toronto have been testing VR systems on CP patients since the early 2000s. Read abstracts here and here (subscription required for full articles). Though the sample population was small, increases were found for playfulness, upper-extremity mobility, and self-efficacy.

Helping Kids with CP Balance

CBS ran a story on VR therapy that allows children with cerebral palsy to move better by visualizing themselves in athletic environments. The system, Irex (made by Gesturetek), projects physical therapy patients onto a green-screen, participating in a variety of physical activities like skiing, soccer, and snowboarding. Each of the games or activities is designed to test a specific part or parts of the body. One group of patients who benefit from this type of therapy are children with cerebral palsy. Using this type of therapy, they can participate in engaging contact sports, which motivates them to complete their exercises, which translates to better balance and coordination.