Effectiveness of virtual reality systems in the rehabilitation process of adult stroke patients

Abstract

Stroke is a major health problem as it results in devastating conditions on the sufferers, consequently altering the lifestyle of the patient and their families. It also poses a financial burden on healthcare resources. The prevalence of stroke in adults is increasing due to risk factors such as an unhealthy diet, smoking and lack of physical activity. Virtual reality (VR) systems, an innovative rehabilitative therapy, have shown positive benefits in regaining motor functions in the affected limbs of post-stroke patients. The purpose of this dissertation is to compare the clinical effectiveness of VR systems with conventional rehabilitative therapies in the treatment of improving body limb functions of post-stroke patients. The PICO framework was utilised to generate the research question for this study. The PICO framework enabled an evidence-based approach to literature searching. The formulated research question is as follows: Are virtual reality systems effective in the rehabilitation process of stroke patients? A computerised search on online databases and relevant information through personal contact with various companies was conducted using the devised inclusion and exclusion criteria. Main criteria applied were papers conducted in English involving either immersive or non-immersive VR systems. Post-stroke patients needed to be over 18 years of age. The search yielded six studies which were ranked according to the hierarchy of evidence and appraised using the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme (CASP) checklist. The main outcome measures were evaluating improvements in motor limb functions of the post-stroke participants. Safety and feasibility, cost-effectiveness of VR systems and client satisfaction were secondary outcome measures. VR systems have been found to have positive benefits on the regaining of motor function in the affected limbs of the participants in the studies selected. However, the benefits of VR systems are not conclusive due to the small sample sizes of the studies selected.