Search Results (33)

Background: Gait analysis plays a key role in detecting and monitoring neurological, musculoskeletal, and orthopedic impairments. While marker-based motion capture (MoCap) systems are the gold standard, their cost and complexity limit routine use. Recent advances in computer vision have enabled markerless smartphone-based approaches. OpenCap, an open-source platform for 3D motion analysis, offers a potentially accessible alternative. This review summarizes current evidence on its accuracy, limitations, and clinical applicability in gait assessment. Methods: A search was performed in major scientific databases to identify studies published from OpenCap’s release in 2023 to June 2025. Articles were included if they applied OpenCap to human gait and reported quantitative biomechanical outcomes. Both validation and applied studies were considered, and findings were synthesized qualitatively. Results: Nine studies were included. Validation research showed OpenCap achieved generally acceptable accuracy kinematics (RMSE 4–6°) in healthy gait, while increased errors were reported for pathological gait patterns. Applied studies confirmed feasibility in different clinical conditions, though trial-to-trial variability remained higher than MoCap, and test–retest reliability was moderate, with minimal detectable changes often exceeding 5°, limiting sensitivity to subtle clinical differences. Conclusions: OpenCap is a promising, low-cost tool for gait screening, remote monitoring, and tele-rehabilitation. Its strengths lie in accessibility and feasibility outside laboratory settings, but limitations in multiplanar accuracy, pathological gait assessment, and kinetic estimation currently preclude its replacement of MoCap in advanced clinical applications. Further research should refine algorithms and standardize protocols to improve robustness and clinical utility. Full article

Virtual communication, involving the transmission of all human senses, is the next step in the development of telecommunications. Achieving this vision requires real-time data exchange with low latency, which in turn necessitates the implementation of the Tactile Internet (TI). TI will ensure the transmission of high-quality tactile data, especially when combined with audio and video signals, thus enabling more realistic interactions in virtual environments. In this context, advances in realism increasingly depend on the accurate simulation of the grasping process and hand–object interactions. To address this, in this paper, we methodically present the challenges of human–object interaction in virtual environments, together with a detailed review of the datasets used in grasping modeling and the integration of physics-based and machine learning approaches. Based on this review, we propose a multi-step framework that simulates grasping as a series of biomechanical, perceptual, and control processes. The proposed model aims to support realistic human interaction with virtual objects in immersive settings and to enable integration into applications such as remote manipulation, rehabilitation, and virtual learning. Full article

Background: This prospective pilot study included four participants with chronic visual impairment and assessed functional and electrophysiological recovery following visual evoked potential (VEP)-guided auditory biofeedback across diverse etiologies. Low vision affects more than two billion people worldwide and imposes a sustained personal and socioeconomic burden. Conventional rehabilitation emphasizes optical aids and environmental modification without directly stimulating the visual pathway. Emerging evidence indicates that auditory biofeedback based on real-time cortical activity can leverage adult neuroplasticity. Methods: Four men (mean age 58 ± 12 years) with chronic visual impairment attributable to occipital stroke, stage IV macular hole, end-stage open-angle glaucoma, or diabetic maculopathy completed ten 10-min monocular sessions with the Retimax Vision Trainer over three weeks (15 Hz pattern reversal, 90% contrast). Primary end points were best corrected visual acuity (BCVA, ETDRS letters) and P100 amplitude/latency. Fixation stability was recorded with MAIA microperimetry when feasible. A focused PubMed review (2010–2025) mapped current evidence and research gaps. Results: Median BCVA improved by seven letters (IQR 0–15); three of eight eyes gained ≥ 10 letters and none lost vision. Mean P100 amplitude increased from 1.0 ± 1.2 µV to 3.0 ± 1.1 µV, while latency shortened by 3.9 ms. Electrophysiological improvement paralleled behavioural gain irrespective of lesion site. No adverse events occurred. Conclusions: A concise course of VEP-guided auditory biofeedback produced concordant functional and neurophysiological gains across retinal, optic nerve, and cortical pathologies. These pilot data support integration of closed-loop biofeedback into routine low vision care and justify larger sham-controlled trials. Full article

Augmented reality features, such as overlaying information in real time, modifying the projected scene, or dynamically adjusting parameters like contrast, zoom, and brightness, show promise in addressing the specific challenges faced by people with low vision. These tailored solutions enhance their visual experiences. When combined with mobile technology, these features significantly improve the personalization of visual aids and the monitoring of patients with low vision. Retiplus emerges as a personalized visual aid and rehabilitation system, utilizing smart glasses and augmented reality technology for visual aid functions, along with a mobile app for visual assessment, aid customization, and usage monitoring. This wearable system quickly assesses visual conditions, providing deep insights into the visual perception of patients with low vision. Designed to enhance autonomy and quality of life, Retiplus seamlessly integrates into indoor and outdoor environments, enabling the programming of rehabilitation exercises for both static and ambulatory activities at home. In collaboration with specialists, the system meticulously records patient interaction data for subsequent evaluation and feedback. A clinical study involving 30 patients with low vision assessed the effect of Retiplus, analyzing its impact on visual acuity, contrast sensitivity, visual field, and ambulation. The most notable finding was an average increase of 61% in visual field without compromising ambulation safety. Retiplus introduces a new user-centered approach that emphasizes collaboration among a multidisciplinary team for the customization of visual aids, thereby minimizing the gap between the perceptions of low vision specialists and technologists regarding user needs and the actual requirements of users. Full article

With the rapid advancement of computer vision and deep learning technologies, the accuracy and efficiency of real-time gesture recognition have significantly improved. This paper introduces a gesture-controlled robot system based on thermal imaging sensors. By replacing traditional physical button controls, this design significantly enhances the interactivity and operational convenience of human–machine interaction. First, a thermal imaging gesture dataset is collected using Python3.9. Compared to traditional RGB images, thermal imaging can better capture gesture details, especially in low-light conditions, thereby improving the robustness of gesture recognition. Subsequently, a neural network model is constructed and trained using Keras, and the model is then deployed to a microcontroller. This lightweight model design enables the gesture recognition system to operate on resource-constrained embedded devices, achieving real-time performance and high efficiency. In addition, using a standalone thermal sensor for gesture recognition avoids the complexity of multi-sensor fusion schemes, simplifies the system structure, reduces costs, and ensures real-time performance and stability. The final results demonstrate that the proposed design achieves a model test accuracy of 99.05%. In summary, through its gesture recognition capabilities—featuring high accuracy, low latency, non-contact interaction, and low-light adaptability—this design precisely meets the core demands for “convenient, safe, and natural interaction” in rehabilitation, smart homes, and elderly assistive devices, showcasing clear potential for practical scenario implementation. Full article

Bardet–Biedl syndrome (BBS) is a rare multisystem ciliopathy characterized by early-onset retinal degeneration and other vision-threatening ophthalmologic manifestations. This review synthesizes current knowledge on the ocular phenotype of BBS as well as emerging therapeutic approaches aimed at preserving visual function. Retinal degeneration, particularly early macular involvement and rod–cone dystrophy, remains the hallmark of BBS-related vision loss. Additional ocular manifestations, such as refractive errors, nystagmus, optic nerve abnormalities, and cataracts further contribute to visual morbidity. Experimental therapies—including gene-based interventions and pharmacologic strategies such as nonsense suppression and antioxidant approaches—have shown promise in preclinical models but require further validation. Early ophthalmologic care, including routine visual assessments, refractive correction, and low-vision rehabilitation, remains the standard of management. However, there are currently no effective therapies to halt or reverse retinal degeneration, which underscores the importance of emerging molecular and genetic interventions. Timely recognition and comprehensive ophthalmologic evaluation are essential to mitigate visual decline in BBS. Future efforts should focus on translating these approaches into clinical practice, enhancing early diagnosis, and promoting multidisciplinary collaboration to improve long-term outcomes for patients with BBS. Full article

Background: Nearly 5 million people in Peru live with visual impairments, many of which are irreversible. within addition to eye care services, these individuals could benefit from government services and rehabilitation to improve their quality of life and promote equitable, inclusive social participation. Although numerous government policies address this, little is known about their perception and implementation. Methods: Semi-structured individual online interviews were conducted with 29 people (7 low vision, 12 blind, 6 educators/rehabilitators, 4 medical doctors) in Peru between July and November 2024. Each participant was asked to respond to the same 16 open-ended questions. Their transcripts were coded into themes in 5 domains: assistive devices, vision rehabilitation services, government assistance programs, accessibility for people with visual impairments, and eye care services. The themes were compared among members of each group. Results: Themes from educators/rehabilitators aligned well with those with blindness but much less with ophthalmologists and those with low vision. Participants mentioned that assistive devices are not traditionally provided by the government. There was little mention of vision rehabilitation services, particularly from low vision participants. Additionally, participants with visual impairments mentioned a lack of sensitivity from teachers, employers, and transport drivers. Interestingly, none of the participants with visual impairments benefitted from financial assistance. Conclusions: Many of the barriers are societal, referring to the lack of understanding from the public in relation to employment, education, transportation, or the use of assistive devices. People with visual impairments and educators should be included in any policy decisions to promote equality for Peruvians with vision loss. Full article

Background/Objectives: Cerebral visual impairment (CVI) is the leading cause of visual disability in children, resulting from damage to the brain’s visual processing pathways. Although ocular structures may be intact, functional vision, the use of vision in daily tasks, is often significantly affected. Cognitive Rehabilitation Therapy (CRT) has shown potential to enhance cognitive functions through neuroplasticity, yet its influence on functional vision remains underexplored. This exploratory pilot study aimed to examine whether CRT could improve functional vision in children with CVI by targeting underlying cognitive deficits. Methods: A single-arm pre–post intervention study was conducted with nine children aged 7–11 years diagnosed with CVI. Participants received 20 individualized CRT sessions over ten weeks, integrating principles from the Model of Visual Functioning. Functional vision was evaluated using the Gazi Functional Vision Assessment Instrument (GFVAI), while cognitive improvements were measured with the Dynamic Occupational Therapy Cognitive Assessment for Children (DOTCA-Ch) and the Motor-Free Visual Perception Test-4 (MVPT-4). Data were analyzed using Wilcoxon signed-rank tests. Results: Statistically significant improvements were observed in GFVAI domains such as light sensitivity, distant visual field, focusing, maintaining focus, and obstacle avoidance (p < 0.05 to p < 0.01). Qualitative analysis also indicated a shift from low/moderate to good/very good performance in most functional vision categories. Cognitive domains, including visual-motor organization, thinking operations, and spatial perception, showed significant gains. Conclusions: CRT may support improvements in functional vision by enhancing cognitive processes in children with CVI. This therapist-led approach is feasible, adaptable, and holds promise for widespread application in pediatric rehabilitation. Full article

Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is a leading cause of vision loss in patients with diabetes. While medical treatments like retinal laser photocoagulation, anti-VEGF therapy, and vitrectomy are primary, complementary therapies are gaining increasing attention. Based on the existing literature, a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet, stress management techniques, and regular physical activity targeting DR, can help regulate blood sugar levels and improve overall physical and mental health to reduce complications. This article explores physical activities and visual training methods related to DR, emphasizing complementary therapies, even though some of these practices are currently not fully integrated into evidence-based ophthalmology. Low vision exercises and aids help patients make the most of their remaining vision, improving their ability to perform everyday tasks, reducing the impact of vision loss, and promoting independence. There is some evidence that eye-related physiotherapy can improve the quality of life for patients with DR, although selection bias cannot be excluded in the presented studies. Consistent physical activity promotes holistic health, and therapies should be regularly monitored by ophthalmologists. This review further helps integrative healthcare professionals in offering appropriate therapies for rehabilitation purposes in the treatment of ophthalmic diseases, particularly DR. Full article

Background: KIF11 mutations are responsible for a large portion of microcephaly with or without chorioretinopathy, lymphedema or impaired intellectual development (MCLMR). Methods: This report describes longitudinal ophthalmological management of an 8-year-old male pediatric patient presenting with MCLMR diagnosed in infancy and associated with a novel, de novo KIF11 mutation. Results: The patient presented with ophthalmological features of low visual acuity and chorioretinal atrophy and later developed bilateral retinal detachments. Syndromic features included microcephaly and developmental delay. Scleral buckling and vitrectomy were ultimately performed in both eyes, with a period of conservative management in the interim. Postoperative visual acuity was preserved in the right eye, although poor in the left eye. The patient received low-vision rehabilitation services and was able to participate in school and extracurricular activities. Conclusions: Early recognition and close monitoring of ocular and systemic manifestations of KIF11 mutations are important to optimize visual rehabilitation efforts. Full article

Background: Despite evidence that low vision rehabilitation (LVR) services can improve visual function in patients with neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD), many patients are not directed to access these resources. This study was conducted to determine factors associated with LVR referral and to assess the visual outcomes from completed evaluations. Methods: The study comprised a retrospective, cross-sectional analysis of patients with nAMD. Referrals for LVR services were extracted from the electronic health record (EHR). The effectiveness of each evaluation was determined by assessing the change in best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) achieved after distance refraction. Costs, quality-adjusted life years (QALYs), and incremental costs per-QALY-gained were calculated based upon the better-seeing eye by using a willingness-to-pay threshold of $50,000/QALY. Results: Out of 560 eligible patients with nAMD, 110 were referred for LVR (19.6%). Referral was more common for individuals who qualified as having low vision, based upon the visual acuity of the better-seeing eye (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 3.214; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.920–5.380, p < 0.001), had bilateral nAMD (aOR, 1.592; 95% CI, 1.017–2.492, p = 0.042), or had commercial health insurance compared to those who had Medicare (aOR, 2.887; 95% CI, 1.041–8.009, p = 0.042). Most patients referred completed LVR appointments (86%). More than half of the patients achieved improved BCVA for their better-seeing eye (53%) yielding an average gain of 0.04 QALYs/patient at a cost of $3504/QALY. The estimated net monetary benefit was $1704 per evaluation completed. Conclusions: Most patients with nAMD achieved improvements in visual function after low vision evaluation, yielding improvements in vision-related quality of life at a reasonable cost. Full article

The restoration of fine motor function in the hand is crucial for stroke survivors with hemiplegia to reintegrate into daily life and presents a significant challenge in post-stroke rehabilitation. Current mirror rehabilitation systems based on wearable devices require medical professionals or caregivers to assist patients in donning sensor gloves on the healthy side, thus hindering autonomous training, increasing labor costs, and imposing psychological burdens on patients. This study developed a low-load wearable hand function mirror rehabilitation robotic system based on visual gesture recognition. The system incorporates an active visual apparatus capable of adjusting its position and viewpoint autonomously, enabling the subtle monitoring of the healthy side’s gesture throughout the rehabilitation process. Consequently, patients only need to wear the device on their impaired hand to complete the mirror training, facilitating independent rehabilitation exercises. An algorithm based on hand key point gesture recognition was developed, which is capable of automatically identifying eight distinct gestures. Additionally, the system supports remote audio–video interaction during training sessions, addressing the lack of professional guidance in independent rehabilitation. A prototype of the system was constructed, a dataset for hand gesture recognition was collected, and the system’s performance as well as functionality were rigorously tested. The results indicate that the gesture recognition accuracy exceeds 90% under ten-fold cross-validation. The system enables operators to independently complete hand rehabilitation training, while the active visual system accommodates a patient’s rehabilitation needs across different postures. This study explores methods for autonomous hand function rehabilitation training, thereby offering valuable insights for future research on hand function recovery. Full article

The fundamental role of vision during development and the nurturing role of early intersubjectivity have enabled the Robert Hollman Foundation to develop an early intervention program providing holistic support to visually impaired children and their families, where fostering parent-infant interactions is at the heart of our care. The aim of this study is to understand how parents perceive this approach. It is an eleven-year retrospective study of children following the Robert Hollman Foundation’s early intervention program, in which parents’ (n = 1086) perceptions of quality of care were measured through the administration of a specifically designed 4-point scale questionnaire. Annual longitudinal trends of parents’ perceptions were calculated for every single response. Parents reported a very high satisfaction value in 21/23 questions (Mean > 3.7 out of a maximum score of 4, with the highest scores in human and soft skills of professionals) with a statistically positive trend (p < 0.05), throughout the period considered. Our core approach, based on an individualized nurturing relational support, has been appreciated and confirmed by the high satisfaction reported in the questionnaires by parents of children with visual impairment. We therefore hypothesize that parent-infant relationship-based and individualized approaches may help parents achieve better health, well-being, and quality of daily life for their children. Full article

Together with the wide range of possible benefits for the rehabilitation/training of people with multiple sclerosis (pwMS) and other neurologic conditions, exposure to immersive virtual reality (VR) has often been associated with unpleasant symptoms, such as transient dizziness, headache, nausea, disorientation and impaired postural control (i.e., cybersickness). Since these symptoms can significantly impact the safety and tolerability of the treatment, it appears important to correctly estimate their presence and magnitude. Given the existing data scarcity, this study aims to assess the existence and severity of possible adverse effects associated with exposure to immersive VR in a cohort of pwMS using both objective measurements of postural control effectiveness and subjective evaluations of perceived symptoms. To this aim, postural sway under upright quiet posture (in the presence and absence of visual input) of 56 pwMS with an Expanded Disability Status Scale score (EDSS) in the range of 0–6.5 (mean EDSS 2.3) and 33 unaffected individuals was measured before and after a 10-min immersive VR session and at 10 min follow-up on the basis of center of pressure (COP) trajectories. The severity of cybersickness symptoms associated with VR exposure was also self-rated by the participants using the Italian version of the Simulator Sickness Questionnaire (SSQ). Temporary impairments of postural control in terms of significantly increased sway area were observed after the VR session only in pwMS with mild–moderate disability (i.e., EDSS in the range of 2.5–6.5) in the presence of visual input. No changes were observed in pwMS with low disability (EDSS 0–2) and unaffected individuals. In contrast, when the visual input was removed, there was a decrease in sway area (pwMS with mild–moderate disability) and COP path length relating to the use of VR (pwMS with mild–moderate disability and unaffected individuals), thus suggesting a sort of “balance training effect”. Even in this case, the baseline values were restored at follow-up. All participants, regardless of their status, experienced significant post-VR side effects, especially in terms of blurred vision and nausea. Taken together, the findings of the present study suggest that a short immersive VR session negatively (eyes open) and positively (eyes closed) impacts the postural control of pwMS and causes significant disorientation. However, such effects are of limited duration. While it is reasonable to state that immersive VR is sufficiently safe and tolerable to not be contraindicated in the rehabilitation/training of pwMS, in order to reduce possible negative effects and maximize the efficacy, safety and comfort of the treatment, it appears necessary to develop specific guidelines that consider important factors like individual susceptibility, maximum exposure time according to the specific features of the simulation, posture to adopt and protocols to assess objective and perceived effects on participants. Full article

East and Southeast Asia (ESEA) are facing age-related eye health issues. Low-vision rehabilitation (LVR), which is a special rehabilitation service for individuals with vision impairment, is a promising solution for these health issues; however, poor accessibility to LVR services has been reported globally, including ESEA. Therefore, this scoping review aimed to summarize and understand the barriers to accessing LVR services in ESEA. In total, 20 articles were ultimately considered eligible for this scoping review after an electronic database search using MEDLINE (PubMed), Web of Science, Academic Search Ultimate (EBSCO), and Ichushi-Web (Japanese medical literature database), and an independent review by two reviewers. Twenty-one potential barrier factors were identified in the full-text review. Notably, age, education, economic status, “previous experience using eye care service”, and “knowledge, information, and awareness” were the possible barrier factors that were examined for their association with LVR utilization, with supportive evidence in many eligible studies. We also identified research gaps relating to geographical and ethnic diversity, the scope of LVR services, and barriers among eligible articles. Therefore, by conducting further studies addressing the research gaps identified in this scoping review, these findings can be used to make LVR services more accessible to people in ESEA. Full article