Effect of virtual reality in Parkinson's disease: a prospective observational study / Efeito da realidade virtual na doença de Parkinson: estudo observacional prospectivo

ABSTRACT

ABSTRACT Objective: To assess the effectiveness of balance exercises by means of virtual reality games in Parkinson's disease. Methods: Sixteen patients were submitted to anamnesis, otorhinolaryngological and vestibular examinations, as well as the Dizziness Handicap Inventory, Berg Balance Scale, SF-36 questionnaire, and the SRT, applied before and after rehabilitation with virtual reality games. Results: Final scoring for the Dizziness Handicap Inventory and Berg Balance Scale was better after rehabilitation. The SRT showed a significant result after rehabilitation. The SF-36 showed a significant change in the functional capacity for the Tightrope Walk and Ski Slalom virtual reality games (p < 0.05), as well as in the mental health aspect of the Ski Slalom game (p < 0.05). The Dizziness Handicap Inventory and Berg Balance Scale showed significant changes in the Ski Slalom game (p < 0.05). There was evidence of clinical improvement in patients in the final assessment after virtual rehabilitation. Conclusion: The Tightrope Walk and Ski Slalom virtual games were shown to be the most effective for this population.

RESUMO

RESUMO Objetivo: Verificar a eficácia dos exercícios de equilíbrio com realidade virtual (RVi) na doença de Parkinson. Métodos: Dezesseis pacientes foram submetidos a uma anamnese, exames otorrinolaringológico e vestibular, ao Dizziness Handicap Inventory (DHI), Escala de Equilíbrio de Berg (EEB), questionário SF-36 e o Teste de Sentar e Levantar (TSL) que foram aplicados antes e após a reabilitação com RVi. Resultados: Os resultados dos escores finais do DHI e EEB foram melhores após a reabilitação. O TSL apresentou resultado significativo após a reabilitação. O SF-36 demonstrou alteração significativa da capacidade funcional para os jogos Tightrope Walk e Ski Slalom (p < 0,05) e da saúde mental para o jogo Ski Slalom (p < 0,05). O DHI e EEB apresentaram alterações significativas no jogo Ski Slalom (p < 0,05). Houve melhora clínica evidente dos pacientes após reabilitação virtual. Conclusão: Os jogos virtuais Tightrope Walk e o Ski Slalom foram os mais eficazes.