Sound-based rehabilitation of unilateral spatial neglect: A systematic review of the literature

PURPOSE: Unilateral spatial neglect (USN) following stroke has a high prevalence and poses significant functional challenges, highlighting the need for effective rehabilitation strategies. Current approaches often fail to meet these needs, prompting the investigation of innovative interventions. This systematic review synthesizes research on therapeutic effects of sound stimulation, elucidating relevant outcomes, influential factors and efficacy, and exploring avenues for novel sound-based rehabilitation strategies. METHOD: A systematic review was conducted following PRISMA guidelines. Literature searches were performed across five databases (PubMed, Web-of-Science, Cochrane Library, PEDro, and Embase) from July 2023 to February 2024. Articles meeting inclusion criteria were appraised using the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) checklist. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: Six studies involving 22 post-stroke USN patients highlighted the therapeutic potential of sound stimulation, despite variability in reported outcomes. Three key factors influencing therapy success were identified: sound characteristics, transmission technology, and rehabilitation approach. Early patients' engagement in therapy and sound-based stimulation of actions in different neglected parts of space that the patients previously neglected appear essential to the success of the therapy success. However, further research is needed using more robust methodologies, particularly to explore the potential of technological and clinical innovations such as auditory virtual reality and targeted individual therapies.