Exploring the Application and Usability of Emerging Technologies in Neuromotor Rehabilitation for a Patient with 5Q-Spinal Muscular Atrophy Type 2 Receiving a Gene-Based Therapy: A Single Case Study

Emerging technologies like virtual reality (VR) and telerehabilitation (TR) may provide numerous advantages for treatment of patients with neuromuscular and musculoskeletal disorders. Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA), a progressive neuromuscular disorder presents challenges in motor function rehabilitation. However, to date no studies have evaluated the use and usability of new technologies in the treatment of patients with SMA. This case study examines the effectiveness of a particular VR-based telerehabilitation system, Khymeia – Virtual Reality Rehabilitation System, in improving upper limb motor recovery in a 13-year-old patient with Type 2 SMA who is receiving gene-based therapy (GBT) with Risdiplam. Motor function was assessed using the Revised Upper Limb Module (RULM), and usability of K-VRRS was evaluated with the System Usability Scale (SUS). The results indicated stable motor function during the baseline phase, with significant improvement observed at the post-treatment assessment. The SUS score reflected high usability of the K-VRRS. This suggests that combining GBT with VR-based telerehabilitation could enhance upper limb motor function in SMA patients. Further research is needed to confirm these findings and investigate the potential of K-VRRS in enhancing patient motivation and treatment adherence in SMA rehabilitation.