The clinical efficacy of virtual reality technologies in restoring functional abilities of the upper limb after stroke

The aim of the current study is to assess the safety and efficacy of an intervention in virtual reality that use an inertial multisensory system and self-learning algorithms to promote the recovery of functions of upper extremities among post-stroke patients. The research is a controlled clinical trial conducted at Pirogov center. Overall, 212 patients fulfilled the inclusion criteria with upper limb paresis, 3 to 6 months after the stroke. The efficacy was evaluated using Modified Frenchay Test for upper limbs, six-point scale used to grade muscle strength, Action Research Arm Test, Motor Assessment Scale, Fugl-Meyer Assessment, Modified Ashworth Scale. The adverse reactions were assessed by a self-report and revealed that less than 10% of patients experience some discomfort but graded it as mild. Functional recovery of the upper limb was significantly improved in the study group.