Combining robotics and virtual reality to assess proprioception in individuals with chronic pain

Abstract

Sensorimotor integration is altered in individuals with chronic pain. We used a system combining an upper limb exoskeleton and virtual reality (VR) to assess proprioception at rest and during active movement in individuals with complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) compared to pain-free healthy controls. Results show impaired sense of position in the CRPS population. However, proprioception during active movement does not differ between groups.