Using virtual reality to help stroke patients improve their balance
Virtual Reality Technologies for Dynamic Balance Rehabilitation in People with Stroke
This study is testing a fun virtual reality system that helps stroke patients improve their balance while walking on a treadmill, making rehab more engaging and effective to help them move better and feel safer.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Kobuk Technologies LLC NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Lake Geneva, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10760428 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing an immersive virtual reality (VR) system that, when combined with treadmill training, helps stroke patients improve their dynamic balance. The project aims to create balance challenges within a VR environment that patients can interact with while walking on a treadmill. By quantifying how these VR elements can enhance rehabilitation, the study seeks to provide a more engaging and effective therapy option for individuals recovering from strokes. Ultimately, the goal is to reduce the risk of falls and improve mobility and quality of life for these patients.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have experienced a stroke and are undergoing rehabilitation for balance issues.
Not a fit: Patients who have not had a stroke or those with severe cognitive impairments that prevent them from engaging with VR technology may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly enhance rehabilitation outcomes for stroke patients by improving their balance and reducing fall risk.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using virtual reality for rehabilitation, indicating that this approach could be effective for improving balance in stroke patients.
Where this research is happening
Lake Geneva, United States
- Kobuk Technologies LLC — Lake Geneva, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Schmit, Brian D — Kobuk Technologies LLC
- Study coordinator: Schmit, Brian D
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.