EFFICACY OF VIRTUAL REALITY-BASED THERAPY IN POST-STROKE MOTOR RECOVERY: A META-ANALYSIS

Abstract

Since Stroke is a leading cause of adult impairment, new approaches to rehabilitation are being investigated. Utilizing technology advancements, virtual rehabilitation (VR) has become increasingly popular as a stroke recovery treatment. Following PRISMA criteria, the authors performed a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) published in English during the past ten years. The authors used specified search phrases and Medical Subject Headings (MeSH) to search resources, including Medline/PubMed and the Cochrane Library. With an emphasis on RCTs, including adult stroke patients receiving VR therapy and outcomes about motor function and quality of life, the methodological quality was evaluated using the PEDro scale. In our meta-analysis, the authors included fifteen papers. Compared to traditional therapy, VR rehabilitation has a number of benefits, including improved feedback and more patient motivation. Immersion in virtual reality settings enhances concentration during therapy, which may accelerate the healing of stroke-related deficits. VR treatments greatly enhance motor function, enhancing daily living activities and general quality of life. Virtual reality has effectively enhanced motor function and stroke survivors' quality of life. Subsequent investigations examine patient variability and enhance intervention techniques. VR integration in rehabilitation programs may improve the prognosis for stroke patients.