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Updated: May 15, 2025
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Author Spotlight: Rehabilitation of Stroke Patients With a Digital Occupational Training System
Published on: December 29, 2023
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The Effects of Virtual Reality Training on Post-Stroke Upper and Lower Limb Function: A Meta-Analysis
Woo-Kyoung Yoo1, Yongkyun Jung2, Gyu Jin Kim1
1Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Hallym University Sacred Heart Hospital, Anyang, Korea.
Brain & Neurorehabilitation
|April 7, 2025
Summary
Virtual reality (VR) training significantly improves post-stroke rehabilitation outcomes, including upper limb function, daily activities, and balance, compared to conventional training (CT). This meta-analysis offers low- to moderate-certainty evidence supporting VR
Area of Science:
- Neurorehabilitation
- Medical Technology
- Clinical Trials
Background:
- Stroke rehabilitation aims to restore motor function and independence.
- Conventional training (CT) methods have limitations in engagement and efficacy.
- Virtual reality (VR) offers immersive and interactive therapeutic environments.
Purpose of the Study:
- To conduct an updated meta-analysis comparing VR training and CT for post-stroke rehabilitation.
- To evaluate the effectiveness of VR across different rehabilitation aspects (upper limb, lower limb, ADLs, balance).
- To assess the certainty of evidence using GRADE methodology.
Main Methods:
- Systematic literature search of 4 databases (MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane Library, KoreaMed).
- Inclusion of 30 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) following PRISMA guidelines.
- Subgroup analysis by VR type and assessment of risk of bias using Cochrane's tool.
Main Results:
- VR training demonstrated significant superiority over CT in improving upper limb motor function.
- VR training also showed significant benefits for activities of daily living (ADLs) and balance.
- Evidence certainty ranged from low to moderate across the evaluated outcomes.
Conclusions:
- VR training is a superior alternative to CT for specific aspects of post-stroke rehabilitation.
- Clinicians should consider patient-specific factors when integrating VR into rehabilitation plans.
- Further research may refine VR protocols for optimal functional recovery in stroke survivors.
