Efficacy of wearable devices for upper and lower limb rehabilitation in stroke patients: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

Objective Our aim was to explore the impact of wearable devices on rehabilitation of stroke patients. Methods We searched the CINAHL, Cochrane, Embase, PsycINFO, PubMed, Web of Science, China National Knowledge Internet, Wanfang, SineMed, and VIP databases to identify articles from inception through Janu 15th, 2026. The primary endpoint was limbs function, comprising upper limb function, lower limb function, and overall motor function, while secondary endpoints included quality of life and activities of daily living. The standard mean difference was taken as the effect value and the random effects method was adopted when I 2 was greater than 50%. The risk bias assessment employed the Cochrane Collaboration’s tool, while the sensitivity analysis and publication bias were respectively evaluated through the sequential exclusion method and the Egger’s method. Results This systematic review included 20 studies and a total sample of 1007 participants. Significant statistical differences were observed in upper limb function (SMD 0.27, 95%CI 0.09 to 0.45, P =0.004), lower limb function (SMD 1.58, 95%CI 0.31 to 2.85, P =0.01), overall motor function (SMD 4.59 95% CI, 0.80 to 8.38, P =0.02) and activities of daily living (SMD 2.61, 95%CI 1.18 to 4.04, P< 0.01) among stroke patients. Conclusion Wearable devices are found to have positive impact on the limb function and activity of daily living of stroke patients, but have no significant intervention effect on quality of life.