Examining the effects of non-immersive virtual reality game-based training on knee hyperextension control and balance in chronic stroke patients: a single-blind randomized controlled study.

Background: Post-stroke hemiparesis can lead to decreased mobility, gait disturbances, impaired balance, postural instability, limitations in activities of daily living (ADL), and long-term disability.

Aims: The aim of this study was to examine the effect of non-immersive virtual reality game-based training (nIVRGT) in addition to conventional rehabilitation in stroke patients on dynamic balance, knee hyperextension control, and ADL.

Methods: Twenty-five chronic stroke patients aged between 51 and 70 were included in the study. Stroke patients were randomized to a control group (n = 12) and a study group (n = 13). Individuals in control group participated conventional physiotherapy and rehabilitation program for 60 min, 3 days a week for 6 weeks. individuals in the study group received 40 min of conventional physiotherapy and rehabilitation program plus 20 min nIVRGT. Functional Reach Test, Timed Up and Go Test, Computerized Gait Evaluation System and Barthel Index were used in the evaluation.

Result: The study group improved significantly in dynamic balance, knee control, and ADL (p < 0.05). In the control group, significant improvements were observed in dynamic balance and knee control (p < 0.05), except ADL (p > 0.05). The study group improved in dynamic balance compared with the control group (p < 0.05). Knee control and ADL improved similarly in both groups (p > 0.05).

Conclusion: Our results showed that conventional and additional nIVRGT rehabilitation improved dynamic balance and knee hyperextension control in chronic stroke. However, it was observed that the non-immersive virtual reality (nIVR) approach was more effective in improving dynamic balance in stroke patients than conventional rehabilitation alone.

Clinical Trial Code: NCT05907473.