Virtual Reality and Neurostimulation for Early Stroke Rehabilitation

Launched by MEDICAL UNIVERSITY OF VIENNA · Mar 14, 2025

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is exploring a new way to help people recover from strokes using virtual reality (VR) and a type of electrical stimulation called TENS. Stroke can lead to weakness and sensory issues, making it hard for individuals to move and feel normally. The researchers believe that by combining the immersive experience of VR with tactile feedback from TENS, they can support patients' recovery during the crucial early months after a stroke. This approach encourages active participation in movements that are tailored to each person's abilities, aiming to improve not just movement but also how they feel and perceive their affected limbs.

To join the study, participants need to be between 18 and 80 years old and have had a stroke within the last three months. They should be able to sit upright and have some ability to move their arms. However, those with other serious health conditions or certain types of neurological issues will not be eligible. If chosen, participants will engage in VR activities designed to help them practice movements while receiving real-time feedback, making the rehabilitation process more engaging and effective. This innovative approach seeks to harness the brain's ability to adapt and recover during this important time.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • Confirmed diagnosis of ischemic or hemorrhagic stroke
• • In the subacute phase (from 7 days to 3 months from last stroke onset)
• • Fugl-Meyer-Upper Extremity (FMUE) scale for the motor part: FMUE ≥ 10
• • Ability to sit in an upright position
• • Age between 18 and 80 years
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Other neurological or physical impairment or mental condition that, in the judgment of the investigator, does not allow participation in the study.
• • Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) \< 24
• • Epilepsy
• • Nausea, headaches or fatigue due to VR-generated environment ("virtual reality motion sickness")
• • Peripheral nerve damage in the affected arm or hand
• • Pacemaker or other electronic implants