Effects of virtual reality-based robot therapy combined with task-oriented therapy on upper limb function and cerebral cortex activation in patients with stroke

Abstract

Background: This study aimed to investigate the effects of virtual reality (VR)-based robot therapy combined with task-oriented therapy on cerebral cortex activation and upper limb function in patients with stroke. Methods: This study included 46 patients with hemiplegia within 1 year of stroke onset. Patients were divided into an experimental group (n = 23) and a control group (n = 23) using a computer randomization program. The experimental group received VR-based robot and task-oriented therapies, whereas the control group received only task-oriented therapy. All participants received interventions for 40 minutes per session, 5 times a week, for 8 weeks. For the pre- and post-evaluation of all participants, the Fugl–Meyer Assessment for the upper extremity, manual function test, motor activity log, and Jebsen–Taylor Hand Function Test were used to evaluate changes in upper limb function and motor-evoked potential amplitudes were measured to compare cerebral cortex activation. Results: In comparison to the control group, experimental group demonstrated an improvement in the function of the upper limb (P < .01) and activation of the cerebral cortex (P < .01). Conclusion: The combined intervention of VR-based robot and task-oriented therapies is valuable for improving upper limb function and cerebral cortex activation in patients with stroke.