Virtual Reality Balance Exercise for Stroke Survivors: A Unique Adjunct to Traditional Rehabilitation Methods

Project Code

Project Title

Virtual Reality Balance Exercise for Stroke Survivors: A Unique Adjunct to Traditional Rehabilitation Methods

Proposal Abstract

Reporting Abstract

The purpose of this study was to determine whether adding VR therapy to stroke rehabilitation inpatient care improves balance, mobility and gait. A blinded randomized controlled trial studying 59 stroke survivors was performed. The treatment group (n=30) received standard stroke rehabilitation therapy plus a program of VR exercises that challenged balance (eg, soccer goaltending, snowboarding) performed while standing. Outcome measures of balance and mobility were assessed before, immediately after, and 1 month after training. The VR exercise intervention for inpatient stroke rehabilitation successfully improved mobility-related outcomes. Study results have encouraged researchers to continue evaluating and potentially using VR interventions in other stroke rehabilitation populations. The study was published in the peer-reviewed journal of the American Heart Association, Stroke (McEwen D, Taillon-Hobson A, Bilodeau M, Sveistrup H, Finestone H. Virtual reality exercise improves mobility after stroke: an inpatient randomized controlled trial. Stroke. 2014;45(6):1853-1855).

Keyword Codes

Primary Project Lead for Contact

BAM - Bruyere Academic Medical Organization

Project Summary

Virtual Reality Balance Exercise for Stroke Survivors: A Unique Adjunct to Traditional Rehabilitation Methods

BAM - Bruyere Academic Medical Organization

Project Summary

Log in with your credentials

Forgot your details?