Clinical trial Recruiting at 1 site Interventional Ages 18 to 80

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 typeInterventional
Ages18 Years to 80 Years
SexAll
Enrollment35 (estimated)
SponsorMedical University of Vienna
Academic / other
Locations1 site (Vienna, State of Vienna)
StatusRecruiting
StartedMarch 17, 2025
Main results expectedNovember 30, 2026
Study endsJanuary 31, 2027
Registry record updatedApril 6, 2025
Trial IDNCT06887231 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

Similar studies

Other studies for the same condition or treatment. Recruiting studies are listed first.

How to take part

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.