Using virtual reality and neurostimulation to help stroke recovery
Official title: Virtual Reality (VR) Platform and Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) for Early Stroke Rehabilitation
Run by Medical University of Vienna · NCT06887231 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing if using virtual reality and a special electrical stimulation can help stroke patients recover better by improving their movement and feeling.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years to 80 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 35 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Medical University of Vienna Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Vienna, State of Vienna) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | March 17, 2025 |
| Main results expected | November 30, 2026 |
| Study ends | January 31, 2027 |
| Registry record updated | April 6, 2025 |
| Trial ID | NCT06887231 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates are adults aged 18 to 80 who have experienced an ischemic or hemorrhagic stroke and are in the subacute recovery phase.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with other neurological conditions, severe cognitive impairments, or those experiencing virtual reality motion sickness 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 explores the use of virtual reality (VR) combined with transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) to enhance rehabilitation for stroke patients in the subacute phase. It aims to address both motor and sensory impairments that often hinder recovery by integrating multisensory feedback into the rehabilitation process. Participants will engage in task-oriented movements while receiving VR and TENS interventions, compared to conventional rehabilitation methods. The goal is to improve overall recovery outcomes by considering the role of sensory feedback and body perception.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly enhance recovery and quality of life for stroke survivors by improving both motor and sensory functions.
How similar studies have gone: While the combination of VR and TENS is a novel approach, there is growing evidence supporting the effectiveness of VR in rehabilitation, suggesting potential for success.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:
* Confirmed diagnosis of ischemic or hemorrhagic stroke
* In the subacute phase (from 7 days to 3 months from last stroke onset)
* Fugl-Meyer-Upper Extremity (FMUE) scale for the motor part: FMUE ≥ 10
* Ability to sit in an upright position
* Age between 18 and 80 years
Exclusion Criteria:
* Other neurological or physical impairment or mental condition that, in the judgment of the investigator, does not allow participation in the study.
* Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) \< 24
* Epilepsy
* Nausea, headaches or fatigue due to VR-generated environment ("virtual reality motion sickness")
* Peripheral nerve damage in the affected arm or hand
* Pacemaker or other electronic implants
Where it's running
-
Medical University of Vienna, Department of Neurology
Vienna, State of Vienna, Austria Recruiting
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Andrea Cimolato, PhD
- Email: andrea.cimolato@meduniwien.ac.at
- Phone: +4314040039224
Similar studies
Other studies for the same condition or treatment. Recruiting studies are listed first.
-
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.
-
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.
-
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.
-
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.
-
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.
-
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.