Gait Training with Virtual Reality-Based Real-Time Feedback for Chronic Post-Stroke Patients: A Pilot Study.

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Rehabilitation Medicine
• Biomedical Engineering

Background:

• Virtual reality (VR) based training is recognized for enhancing brain plasticity and functional recovery in post-stroke patients.
• VR offers a promising avenue for therapeutic interventions, particularly in motor rehabilitation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of virtual reality-based real-time feedback integrated with treadmill gait training.
• To assess the impact on motor function, balance, and spatiotemporal gait parameters in individuals with chronic stroke.

Main Methods:

• A randomized controlled trial involving 15 chronic stroke patients, divided into an experimental VR group (n=8) and a control treadmill group (n=7).
• The experimental group utilized a treadmill with an Oculus Rift VR system and smart insoles for real-time feedback, while the control group used treadmill training alone.
• Both groups trained for 30 minutes/day, 3 times/week, over 5 weeks, with assessments including Fugl-Meyer assessment, timed up and go test, Berg balance scale, and Optogait.

Main Results:

• The VR group demonstrated significantly greater improvements in motor function (Fugl-Meyer assessment) compared to the control group (4.75 vs. 1.57).
• Enhanced improvements were noted in balance metrics, including the timed up and go test (-3.10 vs. -1.12) and Berg balance scale (3.00 vs. 1.71) in the VR group.
• Significant gains in spatiotemporal gait parameters, such as affected step length, stride length, affected single support, and cadence, were observed in the VR group.

Conclusions:

• Virtual reality-based real-time feedback combined with treadmill gait training positively impacts motor function, balance, and gait performance in post-stroke patients.
• This VR-integrated approach represents a valuable advancement in stroke rehabilitation strategies.