360° immersive virtual reality-based mirror therapy for upper extremity function and satisfaction among stroke...

Area of Science:

• Neurorehabilitation
• Robotics and Virtual Reality in Medicine
• Clinical Neurology

Background:

• Stroke rehabilitation is crucial for reducing long-term disability.
• Traditional mirror therapy (MT) has limitations for upper extremity recovery.
• Immersive virtual reality (VR) offers potential advancements in rehabilitation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate a novel 360° immersive VR-based MT (360MT) for stroke upper extremity rehabilitation.
• To compare 360MT against traditional MT (TMT) and a conventional physical therapy control group (CG).

Main Methods:

• A randomized controlled trial involving 45 chronic stroke patients.
• Participants were allocated to 360MT, TMT, or CG.
• Outcome measures included Fugl-Meyer Assessment (FMA-UE), Box and Block Test (BBT), and Manual Function Test (MFT), alongside patient experience assessments.

Main Results:

• The 360MT group showed significantly greater improvements in FMA-UE, MFT, and BBT compared to TMT and CG.
• Patient experience and satisfaction were higher in the 360MT group.
• Participants reported increased engagement and motivation with 360MT.

Conclusions:

• 360MT is a promising approach for enhancing upper extremity rehabilitation outcomes in stroke patients.
• This VR-based therapy offers superior functional improvements and patient satisfaction.
• Further research is warranted to solidify the evidence base for 360MT in stroke rehabilitation.