Virtual Reality-Enhanced Rehabilitation for Upper Limb Recovery in Acute Post-Stroke Patients

Effects of Virtual Reality-Enhanced Rehabilitation on Upper Limb Recovery in Acute Post-Stroke Patients: a Pilot Study

Post-stroke rehabilitation is essential for maximising motor recovery. Virtual reality (VR) is emerging as a promising adjunct to conventional therapy (CRT), potentially enhancing upper limb motor outcomes. The goals of the study are:

1. To evaluate the efficiency of VR in addition to CRT on upper limb function in the acute phase of post-stroke rehabilitation, which is underrepresented in the literature.
2. To explore the relationship between cognitive impairment and upper limb motor recovery using VR.

The investigators hypothesise that combining VR and CRT improves upper limb functional outcomes in acute stroke beyond the effects of CRT.

The investigators will conduct a prospective randomised single- blind pilot controlled trial to evaluate the efficacy of VR-based rehabilitation with the Bimeo PRO system in improving upper limb function in acute post-stroke patients. Participants will be randomly assigned to a two-week program of VR training combined with conventional therapy (experimental group) or conventional therapy alone (control group).

Inclusion Criteria:

• Adults ≥18 years.
• First-ever acute stroke, occurring <7 days before therapy start.
• Upper-limb activity limitation with some preserved function (e.g., ability to grasp).
• Able to understand instructions and provide informed consent.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Severe cognitive impairment that precludes following instructions.
• Aphasia or severe visual/hearing impairment that prevents meaningful participation.
• End-stage/terminal illness.