The effect of balance training using touch controller-based fully immersive virtual reality devices on balance and walking ability in patients with stroke: A pilot randomized controlled trial

Abstract

Background: Fully immersive virtual reality (FIVR) removes information from the real world and replaces it with computer-generated data, creating the impression of being in a genuine virtual world. Objective: To evaluate the effects of balance training using touch controller-based FIVR devices on balance and walking abilities in patients with stroke. Methods: The participants were randomly categorized into the FIVR group (n = 18) and control group (n = 18). The control group received conventional therapy for 5 sessions, 30 minutes per week, for 5 weeks. The FIVR group practiced additional touch controller-based FIVR balance training for 3 sessions of 30 minutes per week for 5 weeks and changes in balance and walking ability were measured for both groups. Results: Touch controller-based FIVR balance training significantly improved the Berg Balance Scale (BBS) and, timed up-and-go (TUG) test results (P < .01). There was also significant improvement in gait abilities, including gait velocity, step length of the affected side, stride length, and single limb support of the affected side (P < .01). Conclusion: Touch controller-based FIVR balance training improved balance and gait in patients with stroke. These results indicate that touch controller-based FIVR balance training is feasible and suitable for patients with stroke, providing a promising avenue for rehabilitation.