The Virtual Rehab multimedia platform improves the quality of life of multiple sclerosis patients

Virtual Rehab is another example of how multimedia technology can be applied to the healthcare environment. It is a solution, based on a 3D playful environment, which has been implemented in Guipúzcoa for the rehabilitation of multiple sclerosis patients.

The Multiple Sclerosis Association of Gipuzkoa (Ademgi) implements a virtual system to carry out the rehabilitation of patients suffering from this disease. The system, called Virtual Rehab, uses the R&D program of the Basque Multiple Sclerosis Foundation and has been developed by the company Virtualware.

The Virtual Rehab system combines 3D and Kinect technology Microsoft to adapt the program to the special needs of these patients.

Through virtual rehabilitation based on a more playful 3D environment, the patient faces different types of exercises much more motivated, and the therapist is able to obtain reports on the patient's progress.

From your control panel, physiotherapists can control and plan exercises, personalized for each specific patient. Once this process is done, patients can continue their rehabilitation.

They stand in front of the screen and follow the movements indicated by the virtual figure, all of this carried out in a playful environment that motivates them to exercise their legs and arms., improving coordination, elasticity and balance, Fundamental concepts for the treatment of those suffering from multiple sclerosis.

Another advantage that this system offers is that patients do not have to travel to the Ademgi facilities., but they can continue the rehabilitation from their own home. They only need a computer and a Kinect device camera that captures movement and transfers it to the figure..

Ademgi plans that this solution can be used by the more than six hundred people who suffer from multiple sclerosis in Guipúzcoa and that they can thus improve their quality of life..