Virtual reality applications promote neuroplasticity in rehabilitation ror stroke patients

Abstract

    Stroke is recognized as the second cause of death in the world and the leading cause of long-term disability. Rehabilitation of walking is urgent based on neuroplasticity. The present study evaluated the effectiveness of walking training with Exowalk robot combined with virtual reality screen on subacute stroke patients. By using a prospective interventional research method, thirty patients were trained in physical therapy techniques to develop nerve, balance, increase muscle strength, range of motion, and occupational therapy, according to the technical process for stroke patients at Ho Chi Minh Orthopedics and Rehabilitation Hospital. Patients continued to practice walking with Exowalk robot combined with virtual reality screen. Results have shown that improved walking ability by FAC scale, lower limb muscle strength by MI, balance by BBS, endurance by 6MWT, walking speed by 10MWT before and after 4 weeks of treatment, with FAC (1.27 ± 0.87, 2.40 ± 0.86), MI (36.6 ± 16.8, 55 ± 18.50), BBS (16.4 ± 6.3, 35.1 ± 10.2), 6MWT (107.2 ± 18.1, 155.1 ± 28.7) and 10MWT (36.6 ± 5.8, 26.1 ± 4.7). These results indicated improvement in walking ability, lower limb muscle strength, balance, endurance, and walking speed before and after 4 weeks of treatment with p < 0.001.