INTRODUCTION: The impaired postural control is one of the main problems for stroke survivors. Its consequences require the development of effective and challenging rehabilitation strategies for promotion of function. In this context, studies focusing on Virtual Environment (VE) suggest that Virtual Reality (VR) is an interface device which allows creating high levels of motivation and adaptation of the patient to the therapy. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to investigate the role of VR using video game to the improvement of postural control in a chronic stroke survivor. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Only one subject participated in this study and was submitted to a rehabilitation protocol of 12 weeks, three times a week, using videogame. Measures of the center of pressure were obtained previously and latter to the protocol using a force plate. RESULTS: The protocol resulted in higher amplitude of sway in x and y for both eyes open and eyes closed condition, and a higher area of sway in both conditions too. However, the velocity of sway was reduced for both conditions. CONCLUSION: The VR as an interface device in rehabilitation could be responsible for improve the exploration of the support base and thus might be an additional device in clinical rehabilitation.
Stroke; Postural balance; Video games; Biomechanics
