Using Augmented Reality (AR) as part of a Graded Motor Imagery Treatment Plan: Phase 1 – AR model design and implementation
Description
Graded motor imagery is a treatment approach which uses neuroplasticity to alleviate the effects of chronic pain conditions associated with movement. Augmented reality is a technical approach which overlays digital elements onto the real world resulting in enriched interactive experiences. The purpose of this two-phase study is to assess the use of augmented reality (AR) to assist patients in performing graded motor imagery, thus decreasing pain and increasing function and mobility.
Phase 1 – AR model design: A set of pilot AR games were designed and implemented using real-time hand detection and landmark tracking using Google’s Mediapipe library to recognize hand movements for training fine motor skills. In Phase 1, our results, demonstrate successful design and implementation of the AR tool for use in a GMI treatment plan with a modicum of computational skill.
Phase 2 –Clinical testing: We envision testing adult subjects with chronic unilateral hand pain in the use of the AR platform that will include a functional task and a game that focuses on functional pinch and manipulation of the virtual image. Interaction with the platform will be conducted 3x per week x 6 weeks with baseline measures at 3 and 6 weeks. A subjective 1-10 pain rating scale, time to complete a peg board task with involved hand, and the scoring system for time and accuracy on AR system tasks will be performed.
Conclusion: We hope that this work will generate ongoing interest in the use of AR in the treatment of GMI.
Citation Information
Mather, Steven and Spocter, Muhammad A., "Using Augmented Reality (AR) as part of a Graded Motor Imagery Treatment Plan: Phase 1 – AR model design and implementation" (2026). Office of Research DMU Research Symposium. 51.
https://digitalcommons.dmu.edu/researchsymposium/2025rs/2025abstracts/51
Using Augmented Reality (AR) as part of a Graded Motor Imagery Treatment Plan: Phase 1 – AR model design and implementation
Graded motor imagery is a treatment approach which uses neuroplasticity to alleviate the effects of chronic pain conditions associated with movement. Augmented reality is a technical approach which overlays digital elements onto the real world resulting in enriched interactive experiences. The purpose of this two-phase study is to assess the use of augmented reality (AR) to assist patients in performing graded motor imagery, thus decreasing pain and increasing function and mobility.
Phase 1 – AR model design: A set of pilot AR games were designed and implemented using real-time hand detection and landmark tracking using Google’s Mediapipe library to recognize hand movements for training fine motor skills. In Phase 1, our results, demonstrate successful design and implementation of the AR tool for use in a GMI treatment plan with a modicum of computational skill.
Phase 2 –Clinical testing: We envision testing adult subjects with chronic unilateral hand pain in the use of the AR platform that will include a functional task and a game that focuses on functional pinch and manipulation of the virtual image. Interaction with the platform will be conducted 3x per week x 6 weeks with baseline measures at 3 and 6 weeks. A subjective 1-10 pain rating scale, time to complete a peg board task with involved hand, and the scoring system for time and accuracy on AR system tasks will be performed.
Conclusion: We hope that this work will generate ongoing interest in the use of AR in the treatment of GMI.
