Feasibility of using immersive virtual functional rehabilitation for recovery of upper extremity function in patients with early-stage stroke: a pilot study
Background: Immersive virtual reality (IVR)-based rehabilitation provides high-intensity, engaging, task-oriented training and motor exploration for upper limb (UL) recovery post-stroke. However, its feasibility and dose-response effects remain unclear. Objective: To evaluate the feasibility and dose-response effects of IVR-based rehabilitation for UL recovery in early stroke patients. Methods: A pilot trial included 12 early-stage stroke patients randomized into two groups: Group A (10 IVR sessions + conventional rehabilitation \[CR\]) and Group B (20 IVR sessions + CR). Feasibility outcomes included adherence, usability (User Satisfaction Evaluation Questionnaire \[USEQ\], System Usability Scale \[SUS\]), system operability, and adverse effects. Motor outcomes, categorized by the International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health (ICF), assessed UL impairment (Fugl-Meyer Assessment, Medical Research Council scale), activity (Box and Block Test), and participation (Motor Activity Log 30). Blinded therapists conducted assessments at baseline, post-intervention, and 4-week follow-up. Dose-response was analyzed using Probability of Superiority (PS).
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Purpose
OTHER
Masking
SINGLE
Enrollment
11
Virtual reality with hand tracking and immersive environment
Immersive virtual reality is a digital therapeutic approach to enhance neuroplasticity using virtual environment and hand tracking for functional motion in upper extremity
Clinica Alemana
Santiago, Santiago Metropolitan, Chile
System Usability Scale [SUS]
Questionnaire completed by the handlers who administer the immersive virtual reality system
Time frame: The treatment providers fill out the questionnaire at the end of treatment. It depends of the group patient: 10 or 20-session treatment.
User Satisfaction Evaluation Questionnaire [USEQ]
Questionnaire of 5 questions with 5 options based on likert rate. Is filled for the patient recruited
Time frame: Administered within the first 7 days of using the immersive virtual reality device
Fugl-Meyer Assessment for Upper Extremity
Clinical assessment scale for upper extremity function. It evaluates various functional areas of the upper extremity: wrist, hand, coordination, and speed. This provides a total of 66 motor function points.
Time frame: It is administered in three stages: Baseline or day 1 (pre treatment). In the week number 4 (post treatment). Up to 8 weeks (follow-up). Through study completion, an average of 6 months.
Motor Activity Log
Questionnaire of 30 questions for quality of functional movement and 30 questions of quantity of functional movement of upper extremity. The maximal score is 150 for both quantity and quality.
Time frame: It is administered in three stages: Baseline or day 1 (pre treatment). In the week number 4 (post treatment). Up to 8 weeks (follow-up). Through study completion, an average of 6 months.
Box and block test
Patient must to pick up little boxes and carry on in a standarized box. Patient must perform the test with both hands, with paresis and without paresis in 1 minute per each upper extremity.
Time frame: It is administered in three stages: Baseline or day 1 (pre treatment). In the week number 4 (post treatment). Up to 8 weeks (follow-up). Through study completion, an average of 6 months.
This platform is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional.
Medical research council
Manual test muscle that use oxford graduation. M0 total weakness to M5 is normal strenght
Time frame: It is administered in three stages: Baseline or day 1 (pre treatment). In the week number 4 (post treatment). Up to 8 weeks (follow-up). Through study completion, an average of 6 months.