Feasibility and efficacy of virtual reality rehabilitation for upper extremity impairment in ischaemic stroke patients: an open-label, parallel-group, randomised controlled trial
An open-label trial evaluates VR intervention for upper extremity recovery in stroke patients, suggesting feasibility but no superiority over physiotherapy.
Key Points
The research aimed to evaluate the feasibility and efficacy of a non-immersive virtual reality system for upper extremity recovery in ischaemic stroke patients.
Conducted an open-label, parallel-group, randomised controlled trial
Assigned participants to VR intervention or conventional physiotherapy
Included 60 first-ever ischaemic stroke patients within 1-6 months of stroke onset
Compared a 12-week VR rehabilitation program with conventional physiotherapy
Assessed outcomes such as motor function, activities of daily living, and quality of life using various assessments.
No significant differences in treatment compliance between groups (p=0.19)
Both groups showed improvements in motor performance and quality of life
No significant differences in the Fugl-Meyer assessment (p=0.58) and other outcome measures
The findings suggest VR was feasible and safe but not superior to physiotherapy.