Cloud-based rehabilitation exergames system

Abstract

Nowadays, a great number of patients around the world require rehabilitation programs. Virtual and augmented reality has been introduced as promising assistive tools to support the patients, allowing them to continue their recovery training by themselves. The purpose of this study is to develop an intelligent, low- cost rehabilitation gaming system using a Microsoft Kinect sensor. We have developed two goal-oriented exercises that target the rehabilitation of patients with chronic pain of the arm. These exercises include moving a ball into a net (basketball game) in the vertical plane and reaching a cup (reaching game) in the horizontal plane. In addition, accurate performance measures are provided for each exercise to quantitatively evaluate the effectiveness of the treatment plan for each patient. The implemented system has increased user motivation to participate in the rehabilitation program, accelerated the recovery of the muscles, and offered the therapists the ability to assess the patients' progress.