Version 1
: Received: 31 December 2023 / Approved: 2 January 2024 / Online: 2 January 2024 (07:08:14 CET)
How to cite:
Mvandal, S. P.; LUPOLY, G.; Mgawe, P. E. Exploring the Impact of Virtual Reality Rehabilitation on Motor Function in Individuals with Spina Bifida in Tanzania: A Quantitative Analysis. Preprints2024, 2024010043. https://doi.org/10.20944/preprints202401.0043.v1
Mvandal, S. P.; LUPOLY, G.; Mgawe, P. E. Exploring the Impact of Virtual Reality Rehabilitation on Motor Function in Individuals with Spina Bifida in Tanzania: A Quantitative Analysis. Preprints 2024, 2024010043. https://doi.org/10.20944/preprints202401.0043.v1
Mvandal, S. P.; LUPOLY, G.; Mgawe, P. E. Exploring the Impact of Virtual Reality Rehabilitation on Motor Function in Individuals with Spina Bifida in Tanzania: A Quantitative Analysis. Preprints2024, 2024010043. https://doi.org/10.20944/preprints202401.0043.v1
APA Style
Mvandal, S. P., LUPOLY, G., & Mgawe, P. E. (2024). Exploring the Impact of Virtual Reality Rehabilitation on Motor Function in Individuals with Spina Bifida in Tanzania: A Quantitative Analysis. Preprints. https://doi.org/10.20944/preprints202401.0043.v1
Chicago/Turabian Style
Mvandal, S. P., GODFREY LUPOLY and Paschal Elauteri Mgawe. 2024 "Exploring the Impact of Virtual Reality Rehabilitation on Motor Function in Individuals with Spina Bifida in Tanzania: A Quantitative Analysis" Preprints. https://doi.org/10.20944/preprints202401.0043.v1
Abstract
Spina bifida, a congenital neural tube defect, presents a complex set of challenges, particularly in motor function, for individuals across the lifespan. The condition is characterized by incomplete closure of the spinal column during embryonic development, leading to a spectrum of motor impairments such as gait abnormalities, muscle weakness, and compromised functional mobility. The prevalence of spina bifida remains a global concern, affecting approximately 1 in 1000 live births. This research investigates the potential impact of virtual reality (VR) rehabilitation on motor function in individuals with spina bifida in Tanzania. A randomized controlled trial involving 120 participants is designed, with one group undergoing traditional rehabilitation and another engaging in a six-week VR rehabilitation program. Motor function assessments, including gait analysis, muscle strength measurements, and functional mobility tests, were conducted at baseline, midpoint, and post-intervention. Preliminary analysis suggests that VR rehabilitation may offer unique benefits, leading to improvements in motor function. The study aims to contribute valuable insights into the efficacy of VR-based interventions for enhancing the motor capabilities of individuals with spina bifida, providing a foundation for future rehabilitation strategies in this population.
Keywords
Neurotube defect, Physiotherapy, Virtual reality Rehabilitation, Spinal bifida, Tanzania
Subject
Public Health and Healthcare, Physical Therapy, Sports Therapy and Rehabilitation
Copyright:
This is an open access article distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution License which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.