Visuo-Vestibular Virtual Reality-Based Training for People with Stroke: A Feasibility Study

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Rehabilitation Medicine
• Human-Computer Interaction

Background:

• Stroke commonly causes balance deficits, impacting mobility and quality of life.
• Vestibular physical therapy (VPT) offers potential for improving postural control via neuroplasticity.
• Virtual reality (VR) provides immersive, ecologically valid environments for engaging rehabilitation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the feasibility and acceptability of a novel VR-based visuo-vestibular rehabilitation protocol for chronic stroke.
• To explore preliminary effects on balance, gait, and functional outcomes using clinical and wearable sensor measures.

Main Methods:

• A randomized feasibility study involving 9 individuals with chronic stroke.
• Participants were assigned to either a Real VR-VPT group or a Sham VR group for 12 sessions.
• Feasibility assessed via attendance, participation (PRPS), user satisfaction (USEQ); safety monitored via adverse events.

Main Results:

• High adherence and excellent user satisfaction were reported in both groups.
• Exploratory analysis indicated improvements in balance measures (MiniBESTest, BBS) in the Real VR-VPT group.
• Wearable inertial measurement unit (IMU) data showed gait improvements across both groups.

Conclusions:

• The VR-VPT protocol is feasible, safe, and well-tolerated by individuals with chronic stroke.
• Exploratory findings suggest potential benefits for balance and mobility.
• Combining clinical assessments with wearable sensor data is a viable approach for evaluating rehabilitation outcomes.