Queen's University Belfast trialing new brain-powered software to support stroke rehabilitiation

Researchers at Queen's University are trialing new ''brain-powered'' gaming software which focuses on regaining arm movement.

Researchers are calling on fifty stroke survivors to take part in the study.

It is thought that it could be a 'game changer' for people who are recovering from a stroke.

Stroke is one of the leading causes of adult disability in Northern Ireland and up to 80 percent of survivors experience arm or hand weakness.

However, Queen's researchers who work in the University's School of Psychology have highlighted that brains are adaptable.

Through a process called neuroplasticity, other parts of the brain can take over lost functions.

Dr Kathy Rudy from Queen's University said: "Users wear a simple headset that reads brain activity while they imagine moving their affected arm.“The brain signals are picked up and used to control a computer game. This form of “motor imagery” activates the same brain areas as real movement and it may help keep these body parts healthy and active after a stroke, even when actual movement isn’t yet possible.”

The goal is to test whether it can improve their ability to move the arm and hand by practicing with the technology at home for several weeks in their own time.

The project is being funded by Northern Ireland Chest Heart and Stroke.

Neil Johnston from the charity said: "Chest and stroke are probably best known for looking after people who have had stroke and for trying to prevent strokes.

"We also fund quite a lot of research every year. We invest several hundred thousand pounds.

"There are 40,000 people in Northern Ireland living with the consequence of strokes, so it seemed fitting that we would invest money to try and help rehabilitate those people.

"8 out of 10 people who suffer a stroke have some sort of limb paralysis, upper limb paralysis or arm paralysis.

"So therefore we see the possibility of using this sort of game technology to try and say rehabilitate people's lives."

An information event is being held at the Riddel Hall in Stranmillis on Thursday from 11am to 3pm.

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