A research team from Queen’s University Belfast is testing a groundbreaking rehabilitation method using video games controlled by brain signals to help stroke survivors regain motor function. Participants wear a special headset that reads brain activity while they mentally simulate moving their affected limbs.
A report from the BBC shared that one of the participants is Rodney Hamilton, a 67-year-old former guitarist from Dundonald who suffered a stroke at age 46 and lost movement in his hand and arm. He still deeply misses playing music, but Rodney says the video game-based rehab brings him joy and motivation.
The method, known as motor imagery training, activates the same brain areas as actual movement. Dr. Kathy Ruddy noted that the process leverages neuroplasticity to help the brain rewire itself and restore lost abilities, even before real movement is possible. The researchers plan to involve around 50 stroke survivors in the study.
