Using virtual reality to help stroke patients recover upper limb function
Official title: Using Immersive Virtual Reality for the Upper Limb Rehabilitation of Post-stroke Subjects: a Multicenter Randomized Control Trial
Run by University Hospital of Ferrara · NCT06892886 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study tests if using virtual reality can help stroke patients improve their arm movement and regain independence in daily activities.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years to 80 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 48 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | University Hospital of Ferrara Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Ferrara) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | March 1, 2023 |
| Main results expected | December 31, 2025 |
| Study ends | December 31, 2025 |
| Registry record updated | March 25, 2025 |
| Trial ID | NCT06892886 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates are individuals who have suffered a first ischemic or hemorrhagic stroke within the last four weeks and have upper limb motor impairment.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with additional neurological conditions, severe cognitive impairments, or significant upper-limb pain 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 investigates the effectiveness of an immersive virtual reality system using a head-mounted display for upper limb rehabilitation in patients who have experienced a sub-acute stroke. The approach aims to simulate real-life movements and tasks to enhance motor function recovery, potentially allowing patients to regain independence in daily activities. Participants will be assessed based on their upper limb motor impairment, and the study will quantitatively measure improvements in limb functioning. The goal is to provide clearer evidence on the benefits of virtual reality in stroke rehabilitation.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly improve upper limb recovery and quality of life for stroke survivors.
How similar studies have gone: While the use of virtual reality in rehabilitation is a growing field, the specific application in upper limb recovery for sub-acute stroke patients is still being explored, indicating a mix of novel and previously tested approaches.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * diagnosis of first, ischemic or hemorrhagic, stroke verified by brain imaging within 4 week * upper limb motor impairment defined by an upper extremity score \<55 on the Fugl-Meyer Assessment Exclusion Criteria: * neurological conditions in addition to stroke that may affect motor function * other medical conditions likely to interfere with the ability to safely complete the study protocol * impaired cognitive functioning that influences the ability to give informed consent * severe neuropsychological disorders * visual impairment * severe upper-limb pain defined as \> 7 on the Visual Analogue Scale
Where it's running
-
Ferrara University Hospital
Ferrara, Italy Recruiting
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Sofia Straudi, MD, PhD
- Email: sofia.straudi@unife.it
- Phone: +390532238720
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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.