Mirror vs virtual reality therapy for improving upper arm function after stroke
Official title: Comparison of the Acute Effects of Mirror Therapy and Virtual Reality Therapy on Upper Extremity Function and Performance in Hemiplegic Patients
Run by Istinye University · NCT07018336 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study sees if mirror therapy or virtual reality therapy better improves arm movement, spasticity, and daily tasks in adults 6–12 months after a stroke.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years to 75 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 42 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Istinye University Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Istanbul, Gaziosmanpaşa) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | May 30, 2025 |
| Main results expected | July 2026 |
| Study ends | July 2026 |
| Registry record updated | March 2, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT07018336 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Adults aged 18–75 with hemiplegia from a stroke 6–12 months earlier, Brunnstrom stage ≥3 in the affected upper extremity, and intact cognition (MMSE ≥24) would be ideal candidates.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with severe spasticity (Modified Ashworth ≥3), vestibular disorders, other major neurological conditions, or significant hearing/vision loss are unlikely to benefit or may be excluded for safety.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This randomized interventional study will enroll 42 adults with hemiplegia 6–12 months after stroke and randomly assign them to a single 30-minute session of either mirror therapy or virtual reality therapy. Outcomes measured immediately include upper limb motor function (Fugl-Meyer Assessment), spasticity (Modified Ashworth Scale), activities of daily living (Barthel Index), fine motor skills (Box and Block Test), proprioception, and reaction time. The mirror protocol uses visual illusion of the unaffected limb to promote cortical activation, while the VR protocol provides immersive, task-specific practice. The goal is a direct head-to-head comparison of acute neurophysiological and functional effects of the two approaches.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the study could identify which method gives faster short-term improvements in arm movement and daily function for people with chronic post-stroke hemiplegia.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown promising short-term motor gains with both mirror therapy and virtual reality individually, but direct head-to-head comparisons are limited.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Hemiplegic patients in need of upper extremity rehabilitation. * Having had a stroke 6 to 12 months prior to the study. * Being at least Stage 3 for the upper extremity according to the Brunnstrom motor recovery stages. * Age range: between 18 and 75 years. * Individuals who volunteer to participate in the study. * Individuals who are cognitively suitable for mirror therapy and virtual reality applications (a score of at least 24 on the Mini Mental State Examination) Exclusion Criteria: * Patients with severe spasticity (score ≥ 3 on the Modified Ashworth Scale) * Individuals with secondary neurological conditions (e.g., Parkinson's disease, multiple sclerosis). * Individuals diagnosed with vestibular dysfunction (as virtual reality equipment may cause issues like nausea or dizziness). * Individuals with communication issues, such as hearing or vision loss.
Where it's running
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İstinye Üniversite Hastanesi Medical Park Gaziosmanpaşa
Istanbul, Gaziosmanpaşa, Turkey (Türkiye) Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Çiçek Günday, Asst. Prof. — Istinye University, Department of Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation
- Study coordinator: Çiçek Günday, Asst. Prof.
- Email: cicek.gunday@istinye.edu.tr
- Phone: +90 850 283 60 00
Similar studies
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.