Force Resistance Training in Hand Grasp and Arm Therapy: Feasibility of a Low-Cost Videogame Controller.

Objective: To design and evaluate a low-cost gaming station that supports force resistance training in pediatric arm/hand grasp therapies through mainstream videogame play.

Methods: The gaming station was developed through an iterative participatory design process and includes a force feedback game controller (Novint Falcon), custom grips, arm/wrist supports, and software to interface with mainstream games and manage difficulty settings in the controller. The station was tested for usability and feasibility with six therapists and six children with cerebral palsy, 7-16 years of age, attending weekly therapy sessions over 12 weeks.