Effectiveness of VR Rehabilitation for People With Asymmetrical Gait Patterns

Evaluation of the Effectiveness of Rehabilitation in Patients With Gait Pattern Asymmetry Using a Virtual Reality

A randomized comparative study will be conducted to evaluate the rehabilitation process using a VR-based application versus conventional therapy in 40 patients (sample size determined using a sample size calculator). After meeting the eligibility criteria, participants will be randomly assigned to two groups: the experimental group (20 patients with gait pattern asymmetry), performing a gait training program using a VR rehabilitation application, and the control group (20 patients with gait pattern asymmetry), performing only a conventional gait training program.

Participants in both groups will take part in a 2-week rehabilitation program (Monday to Friday), with daily training sessions lasting up to 2 hours. Patient assessment will be conducted twice: an initial evaluation before the start of the intervention (Assessment I) and a follow-up evaluation after completion of the 2-week program (Assessment II), at the same time of day, under the same conditions, and using the same measurement tools.

Individuals with a diagnosed and clinically confirmed asymmetry of gait pattern will be eligible for inclusion in the study.

Exclusion criteria: Active rheumatic diseases, cancer, advanced diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and other conditions affecting the safety and effectiveness of rehabilitation, Contraindications to VR therapy (epilepsy, motion sickness, dizziness, nausea), Lower limb injuries or surgeries within the last 6 months, Severe mental disorders preventing understanding of instructions.

Training for both groups will include balance and coordination exercises, proprioceptive stimulation, and exercises aimed at improving step length symmetry and lower limb loading. Additionally, the experimental group will receive 15 to 30 minutes (adjusted to the patient's abilities) of training using a VR application in a virtual environment, providing real-time feedback on body position, step length, and balance. The effects of gait training will be evaluated using the following measures: gait speed, walking endurance, independent mobility and risk of falls, balance, gait symmetry, spinal mobility, and functional performance.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Diagnosed and clinically confirmed gait pattern asymmetry in the course of neurological diseases
• Informed consent to participate in the study and willingness to comply with rehabilitation recommendations

Exclusion Criteria:

• Active rheumatic diseases, cancer, advanced diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and other conditions that may affect the safety and effectiveness of rehabilitation
• Contraindications to VR therapy (epilepsy, motion sickness, dizziness, nausea)
• Lower limb injuries or surgeries within the last 6 months
• Severe mental disorders preventing understanding of instructions
• Lack of informed consent to participate in the study