Effects of Comprehensive Augmented and Virtual Reality in Stroke Patients

Effects of Comprehensive Augmented and Virtual Reality for Upper Limb Rehabilitation in First-Ever Stroke Patients

The purpose of this study was to assess the efficacy of augmented and virtual reality-based rehabilitation programs on improving upper extremity function in subacute stroke patients.

This was a randomized, single-blinded study, conducted at a single acute rehabilitation unit in a university hospital. In this study, the effect of augmented and virtual reality-based rehabilitation for the recovery of subacute stroke patients compared with conventional occupational therapy was evaluated.

Inclusion Criteria:

• First ever stroke
• Onset of stroke less than 3 months
• Sufficiently medically stable to participate in active rehabilitation
• Mild-to-moderate upper extremity motor impairments (Brunnstrom stage for the upper extremity 2-6).

Exclusion Criteria:

• Severe cognitive impairment (defined as score < 10 on the Mini-Mental State Examination)
• Evidence of apraxia
• Clinical history of neglect
• Previous upper extremity hemiplegia.