Role of Functional Translation After Immersive Virtual Reality Exposure in Persons With Stroke

Role of Functional Translation After Immersive Virtual Reality Exposure in Persons With Stroke

This is a single-blinded randomized control trial aiming to explore the use of immersive virtual reality (VR) training in conjunction with real-life tasks therapy in 75 first time stroke patients with upper limb weakness.

Patients will be randomized to a control or experimental group. The experimental group will receive immersive VR training followed by the translation of related tasks in a real life environment. The control group will perform the same tasks in a real life environment but will receive immersive VR exposure to a non-related task.

Inclusion Criteria:

1. 18-90 years old
2. Hospitalized at Loma Linda East Campus Rehabilitation Hospital
3. First time stroke patient
4. Upper limb hemiparesis
5. English-speaking
6. Manual muscle testing of at least 2/5 in 3 or more muscle groups in affected upper limb

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Active neck pain, headaches, or vertigo limiting ability to tolerate Virtual Reality Head Mounted Device
2. Patients with hemicraniectomy
3. Current uncontrolled seizures
4. Active infections requiring contact precautions
5. Cognitively unable to participate
6. Vision loss limiting ability to participate with VR therapy