WristReha - Using Serious Game Tech for a Low Cost Yet Efficient Wrist Rehabilitation Process

Abstract

Bone fractures in the wrist area can lead to limited mobility and disabilities that affect the patient even after the bone has healed. Therefore physiotherapy and occupational therapy are needed for several weeks to months. Repetitive rehabilitation exercises can be tedious and become boring quickly. They are often neglected, which leads to a less successful and prolonged rehabilitation process. Serious games can prevent boredom and enhance the overall experience by integrating gaming elements into rehabilitation. This paper presents a solution by developing a serious game controlled by the Nintendo Joy-Con controller, called ‘WristReha’. Four mini-games consisting of different levels and difficulties were developed. The patient needs to perform specific movements with one hand and wrists, including ulnar and radial conduction, flexion and extension, holding a specific position, and a combination of these movements to control the game. This research provides a novel and engaging way trying to motivate patients to perform the exercises, reduce pain, and improve the therapy’s effectiveness.