Experience of Use and Biopsychosocial Effects of Robotic and Virtual Reality Devices in Neuromotor Rehabilitation

The implementation of virtual reality (VR) and robotic devices in neuromotor rehabilitation has so far provided promising evidence in terms of efficacy throughout different clinical populations. Positive changes in patient's motor and functional outcomes were reported along with an increased autonomy in the activities of daily living (ADLs) and health-related quality of life (HRQoL). The experience of use of these technological devices and their impact on the cognitive and psychosocial outcomes remain still unclear, though. Adopting a biopsychosocial approach, the present two-arm, parallel, non-randomized prospective quasi-experimental study protocol aims to explore the short- and long-term effectiveness of robot-assisted therapy (RAT) and of VR-based neuromotor rehabilitation. Pre-post intervention effects will be estimated and compared between a group of patients undergoing conventional treatment and another group additionally participating in technology-based rehabilitation. The evaluation will include patient's functional status (ie, motor functionality, autonomy in ADLs, risk of falls), cognitive functioning (ie, attention and executive functions), HRQoL, and psychological aspects (ie, anxiety and depression symptoms, quality of life satisfaction). After the treatment, devices usability and experience of use, along with the related psychosocial impact will be also assessed.

Inclusion Criteria: * 18 years of age or older; * Diagnosis of acquired brain injury (ABI) or Parkinson's Disease (PD) or total knee/hip arthroplasty. Exclusion Criteria: * severe clinical condition (ie, chronic heart failure \[New York Heart Association Classification-IV - NYHA-IV\], ischemic heart disease \[Canadian Cardiovascular Society Classification-IV - CCS-IV\], neoplastic disease, acute respiratory disease); * severe cognitive impairment (MoCA ≤ 15.5); * language deficits; * severe mental health condition or psychiatric disorder compromising participation in the study; * absence or withdrawal of the informed consent to participate.