Exergaming for Improving Upper Limb Functions in Parkinson's Disease

Parkinson's Disease commonly results in impaired hand dexterity, reducing a patient's ability to perform activities of daily living. While digital exergaming has been used to encourage physical activity and improve motor function, it often lacks real-world tactile engagement. Integrating physical objects into exergaming known as a phygital approach which may enhance sensorimotor learning and functional carryover. However, its impact on upper limb functional outcomes in PD remains underexplored. Objectives: To assess the effectiveness of exergaming with physical objects on functional outcomes of upper limb rehabilitation in individuals with Parkinson's Disease. Methodology: This randomized controlled pilot study will include 30 individuals with early-stage Parkinson's Disease, recruited through convenience sampling and randomly assigned to either a phygital exergaming group or a control group. Both groups will receive sessions over three monthd (3 sessions/week, 30 minutes each). The phygital group will perform task-based exergaming using both physical objects and digital prompts, while the control group will use digital prompts alone. Functional outcomes will be assessed using the Box and Block Test (BBT), at baseline (day 1) and post intervention 12 weeks. Statistical Analysis: Data will be analyzed using SPSS version 25. Descriptive statistics like gender, stages of diseases etc. will be summarized and described as bar charts and percentages. Within-group differences will be assessed using paired t-tests or Wilcoxon signed-rank tests based on data normality. Between-group comparisons will be conducted using independent t-tests or Mann-Whitney U tests. A p-value of less than 0.05 will be considered statistically significant.