The effects of Virtual Reality Training with Upper Limb Sensory Exercise Stimulation on the AROM of Upper Limb Joints, Function, and Concentration in Chronic Stroke Patients

Abstract Objective We investigated the effect of upper limb sensory stimulation and virtual reality rehabilitation (SMVR) on upper extremity active joint angle, function and cognitive ability in chronic stroke patients. Methods A total of 30 patients were randomly divided into SMVR group and CON group. SMVR group was performed 60 min three times a week for 8 weeks in upper limb sensory stimulation and robot virtual reality rehabilitation. CON group performed conservative treatment and peripheral joint movement for 60 min. The upper limb function was measured by the Jebsen-Taylor hand function test (JTT) and the cognitive ability test was performed by the Stroop test (ST) and Trail making test (TMT). Results There was a significant difference (P<0.05) between before and after training in both groups, and SMVR group showed significant improvement in both groups. Conclusions In this study, we confirmed that robot virtual reality training in combination with limb motion stimulation for stroke patients positively affects the angle, function, and concentration of upper extremity active joints in chronic stroke patients.