Digital and Intelligent Rehabilitation Technologies in Stroke and Neurological Disorders: A Systematic Review of Artificial Intelligence, Virtual Reality, Gamification, and Emerging Therapeutic Platforms in Neurorehabilitation

Artificial intelligence (AI), virtual reality (VR), gamification, and telerehabilitation are increasingly incorporated into neurorehabilitation to deliver adaptive, personalized, and remotely accessible interventions for individuals with stroke and other neurological disorders. These technologies aim to address key limitations in conventional rehabilitation by enhancing training intensity, patient engagement, accessibility, and real-time monitoring. This systematic review synthesizes evidence from clinical and simulation-based studies evaluating AI-assisted systems, non-AI gamified platforms, VR/exergames, telerehabilitation models, and simulation-driven architectures across neurological populations. A comprehensive search of PubMed, Scopus, Embase, CINAHL, and Web of Science (2010–2025) identified randomized controlled trials, pilot and quasi-experimental studies, telerehabilitation systems, VR/exergame interventions, AI-based adaptive tools, and computational or model-driven investigations, guided by a revised PICO framework. Data were extracted using a standardized template, with studies categorized by design, population, technological modality, and outcome domain. Risk of bias was assessed using validated tools, and GRADE was applied to stroke-specific clinical outcomes. Twenty-two studies met the inclusion criteria, encompassing both clinical trials and simulation/modeling research. Clinical studies reported improvements in motor function, balance, gait, swallowing, cognition, and psychosocial well-being, often accompanied by high usability and adherence. AI-enabled systems facilitated adaptive difficulty adjustment, automated feedback, and individualized progression, while non-AI platforms demonstrated strong engagement and meaningful functional gains. Simulation studies provided valuable insights into algorithm behavior, sensor-based modeling, and system optimization. Despite promising multi-domain benefits, methodological heterogeneity, limited long-term follow-up, and inconsistent AI transparency remain key challenges, underscoring the need for standardized outcomes, explainable AI, inclusive design, and robust multicenter trials.