Using virtual reality and motor imagery to help stroke recovery
Official title: Comparison of Three Dimensional Virtual Reality Therapy and Motor Imaging in Functional Recovery of Upper Extremity After Stroke
Run by Abant Izzet Baysal University · NCT04215679 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing whether using virtual reality or mental exercises can help stroke patients recover better use of their arms compared to regular physical therapy.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years to 80 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 36 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Abant Izzet Baysal University Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Bolu, Merkez) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | December 1, 2021 |
| Main results expected | March 1, 2026 |
| Study ends | May 1, 2026 |
| Registry record updated | June 22, 2025 |
| Trial ID | NCT04215679 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates are stroke patients who can communicate in Turkish and have specific levels of hand function.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with other neurological or orthopedic issues, severe motion sickness, or neglecting the affected side may not benefit from this study.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This study aims to compare the effects of three-dimensional immersive virtual reality and motor imagery on the recovery of upper extremity function in stroke patients. Participants will engage in either virtual reality applications, motor imagery exercises, or conventional physiotherapy to assess which method yields better rehabilitation outcomes. The study focuses on understanding how these interventions can stimulate brain recovery and improve motor function after a stroke. It involves patients who have been diagnosed with stroke and meet specific eligibility criteria.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could enhance rehabilitation outcomes for stroke patients, leading to improved motor function and quality of life.
How similar studies have gone: While there have been studies on non-three-dimensional virtual reality and motor imagery, this specific comparison of three-dimensional virtual reality with motor imagery is novel.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Diagnosed as stroke patient. * Speaks, reads and writes in Turkish. * Hand functions at 4, 5, 6 levels according to Brunnstrom. * Mini mental test score to be at least 24. * Volunteer for participation. Exclusion Criteria: * Neurological, orthopedic problems other than stroke. * To have motion sickness that cannot continue 3D application. * Individuals neglecting the affected side
Where it's running
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Abant Izzet Baysal University
Bolu, Merkez, Turkey (Türkiye) Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Mustafa Fatih Yaşar, MD — Bolu Abant Izzet Baylsa University
- Study coordinator: Şebnem AVCI, Ph.D
- Email: avciseb@hotmail.com
- Phone: +905057811059
Similar studies
Other studies for the same condition or treatment. Recruiting studies are listed first.
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Deep phenotyping to explore recovery in young adults after stroke
This project will test whether a detailed health and sample-collection approach (deep phenotyping) is practical and acceptable for people aged 18–55 who have had a stroke.
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Stem cell therapy for chronic stroke recovery
This study is testing whether using a patient's own stem cells can help people with long-term stroke recovery feel better and improve their daily functioning.
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AI-based tools to help diagnose, treat and predict stroke outcomes across multiple hospitals
This study tests AI-powered tools on real-world stroke patients to see if they can improve pre-hospital triage, diagnosis, and outcome prediction while data stay securely within each hospital.
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Web-based therapy using action observation and mirror therapy for arm weakness after stroke
This trial tests whether a mobile telerehabilitation app delivering action observation therapy (AOT) alone or combined AOT with mirror therapy (AOT-MT) can improve upper limb function in people with subacute stroke.
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Remote Ischaemic Conditioning for Fatigue After Stroke 2
Aat least 12 weeks after stroke, adults with post-stroke fatigue will try a simple hand-arm cuff treatment at home to see if it helps reduce fatigue.
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Dual-task balance training plus computer-based cognitive training after stroke
In adults who recently had a stroke, the study tests whether adding computerized cognitive exercises to balance training improves balance and other recovery outcomes.
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.