Kinerehab: a kinect-based system for physical rehabilitation: a pilot study for young adults with motor disabilities

Abstract

This study used Microsoft's Kinect motion sensor to develop an intelligent rehabilitation system. Through discussion with physical therapists at the Kaohsiung County Special Education School, researchers understood that students with physical disabilities typically lack enthusiasm for rehabilitation, hindering their recovery of limb function and ability to care for themselves. Because therapists must simultaneously care for numerous students, there is also a shortage of human resources. Using fieldwork and recommendations by physical therapists, this study applied the proposed system to students with muscle atrophy and cerebral palsy, and assisted them in physical therapy. The system increased their motivation to participate in rehabilitation and enhanced the efficiency of rehab activities, greatly contributing to the recovery of muscle endurance and reducing the workload of therapists.