Effect of Virtual Reality on Balance and Cognitive Function in Acute and Subacute Stroke Patients: A Randomized Clinical Trial

Background: Stroke is a leading cause of disability worldwide, often resulting in impaired balance and cognitive function. Virtual reality (VR) has emerged as a novel intervention in stroke rehabilitation, offering immersive environments to enhance motor recovery.Objective: To evaluate the effect of VR-based rehabilitation on balance and cognitive function in acute and subacute stroke patients compared to conventional physical therapy.Methods: A single-blinded randomized clinical trial was conducted at Allied Hospital Faisalabad from February to April 2024, involving 50 stroke patients. Participants were randomly assigned to either a VR intervention group or a control group receiving conventional therapy. Both groups underwent therapy three times weekly for six weeks. Balance was assessed using the Berg Balance Scale, and cognitive function was evaluated with the Mini-Mental State Examination. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 27 with non-parametric tests.Results: The VR group showed significant improvements in balance (mean rank post-treatment 27.95) compared to the control group (mean rank post-treatment 11.06), with a p-value of 0.030. Cognitive function also improved significantly in the VR group (p = 0.001).Conclusion: VR interventions significantly enhance balance and cognitive function in stroke rehabilitation, particularly in acute phases, suggesting its integration into standard care.