Summary

Balance deficits play a major role in patients who have suffered strokes. It is estimated that 30% of patients cannot walk independently 6 months post-stroke, usually caused by impaired standing balance due to hemiplegia or hemiparesis that is experienced. Balance as a whole is a key factor when it comes to achieving ADL independence post-stroke. While several treatment options are available, in recent years, Virtual Reality has gained attention and traction for a number of reasons. Firstly, through its ability to deliver a customized training session and to increase patients' engagement, allowing the patient to perform a therapeutic program tailored to their needs while interacting with a safe, computer-simulated environment. Secondly, it has also been shown to increase neuroplasticity in the affected area(s) of the brain, by evoking visual, sensory and cognitive interactions at the intercortical level. The unique game-based or immersive/semi immersive aspect of the intervention also adds an enjoyable element to the training, which will increase patient’s motivation.

From the available literature, there is evidence to suggest that Virtual Reality training can be beneficial with regards to improving balance in chronic stroke patients. When included in a general rehabilitation program, results have shown to have a medium to large clinical effect.