Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 11, 2026
07:35
Cognitive Function and Upper Limb Rehabilitation Training Post-Stroke Using a Digital Occupational Training System
Published on: December 29, 2023
Task-oriented virtual reality and brain functional plasticity in progressive multiple sclerosis: A randomized
Mehrnaz Hamedani1, Giada Lombardi2, Giacomo Boffa3
1Department of Neuroscience, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health (DINOGMI), University of Genoa, Genova, Italy.
Multiple Sclerosis (Houndmills, Basingstoke, England)
|June 10, 2026
Summary
Task-oriented rehabilitation, especially with virtual reality (VR), enhances upper limb function and brain network connectivity in progressive multiple sclerosis (PMS) patients. This approach shows promising results for motor recovery in PMS.
Area of Science:
- Neurorehabilitation
- Neuroplasticity
- Multiple Sclerosis Research
Background:
- Effectiveness of motor rehabilitation in progressive multiple sclerosis (PMS) is not well-established.
- Investigating task-oriented (TO) rehabilitation, with or without non-immersive virtual reality (VR), for upper limb function in PMS.
- Evaluating magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) changes associated with motor performance improvements.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the efficacy of TO rehabilitation, with or without VR, in improving upper limb function in PMS patients.
- To explore the impact of these rehabilitation strategies on brain structure and function using MRI.
Main Methods:
- Eighty-one PMS patients on B-cell depleting therapy were randomized into three groups: TO rehabilitation with VR (TO-VR), TO rehabilitation (TO), and passive mobilization (CG).
- Rehabilitation lasted 8 weeks, with assessments of upper extremity function (9-Hole Peg Test, Action Research Arm Test, AbilHand Test, Manual Ability Measure-36), neurological status, and MRI at baseline, post-treatment, and 3-month follow-up.
Main Results:
- While no significant difference was found in the 9-Hole Peg Test, the AbilHand Test showed significant improvement across the whole sample post-treatment (p < 0.001).
- The Action Research Arm Test improved on the left side (p = 0.014).
- Functional MRI revealed increased brain connectivity in the TO-VR and TO groups post-treatment, which correlated with clinical improvements (e.g., AbilHand scores).
Conclusions:
- Task-oriented rehabilitation, particularly when augmented with VR, can significantly improve motor function in progressive multiple sclerosis patients undergoing high-efficacy therapy.
- These functional gains are associated with measurable neuroplastic changes, specifically increased connectivity in cerebral networks.
- The findings suggest TO rehabilitation, especially with VR, is a viable strategy for enhancing motor recovery and promoting brain plasticity in PMS.
