Brain-computer interface plus virtual reality for arm and hand recovery after stroke
Brain-Computer Interface (BCI) With Virtual Reality (VR) in Upper Limb Rehabilitation After Stroke: A Randomized Crossover Clinical Trial
This study will try adding immersive virtual reality to motor-imagery brain-computer interface training to help people 6–24 months after a stroke improve use of their arm and hand.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 12 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 80 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Technical University of Lisbon Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Alcabideche, Lisbon District) |
| Trial ID | NCT07374276 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This is a randomized crossover study in which each participant receives two types of motor-imagery brain-computer interface training in random order: one combined with embodied virtual reality (MI-BCI-VR) and one standard MI-BCI protocol. Each intervention period consists of three supervised sessions per week for six weeks while participants continue their usual rehabilitation, and outcomes are compared within participants. Primary outcomes include upper limb motor function and ability to perform daily activities, and secondary outcomes include changes in brain activity and connectivity measured with EEG. The design allows direct comparison of added effects of VR-based multisensory feedback versus standard BCI neurofeedback.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Adults aged 18–80 with neuroimaging-confirmed stroke resulting in upper limb hemiparesis, 6–24 months post-stroke, with Modified Ashworth Scale <3, able to sit for about two hours, cognitively able to follow instructions, and undergoing conventional rehabilitation are ideal candidates.
Not a fit: People with severe communication or cognitive impairments, scalp skin problems or cephalic metal implants/craniectomy preventing EEG, other neurological or musculoskeletal conditions affecting the arm, or very high spasticity are unlikely to benefit or be eligible.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, adding immersive VR to BCI motor-imagery training could improve arm and hand movement, make daily tasks easier, and strengthen brain motor networks for stroke survivors.
How similar studies have performed: Small trials of motor-imagery BCI have reported promising gains in upper limb function, but combining BCI with immersive VR is relatively novel and remains underexplored.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Clinical diagnosis of stroke confirmed by neuroimaging, with resulting upper limb hemiparesis. * Time since stroke between 6 and 24 months at the time of selection. * Sufficient cognitive ability to understand and follow the intervention procedures. * Spasticity score \<3 on the Modified Ashworth Scale in upper limb muscle groups. * Adults aged 18 to 80 years. * Ability to remain seated for approximately 2 hours. * Motivation to participate and capacity to provide informed consent. * Undergoing conventional rehabilitation therapy during the study period. Exclusion Criteria: * Severe communication difficulties preventing comprehension or execution of instructions. * Skin lesions, allergies, or metal implants in the cephalic region, or history of craniectomy, that hinder electrode placement or interfere with EEG signal acquisition. * Concomitant neurological or musculoskeletal conditions affecting upper limb motor function. * Other neurological, musculoskeletal, or psychiatric conditions that may compromise participation or study outcomes (e.g., major depression, severe visual impairment, photosensitive epilepsy, frequent vertigo or dizziness). * Upper limb impairment due to a previous stroke.
Where this trial is running
Alcabideche, Lisbon District
- Centro de Medicina de Reabilitação de Alcoitão — Alcabideche, Lisbon District, Portugal (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Athanasios Vourvopoulos, PhD
- Email: athanasios.vourvopoulos@tecnico.ulisboa.pt
- Phone: +351218418289
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.