Development of a Virtual Reality-based Rehabilitation Program for Stroke Patients

Thesis Abstract

Abstract
Stroke is a leading cause of disability worldwide, often resulting in motor impairments that require extensive rehabilitation to regain functional independence. Traditional rehabilitation approaches have limitations in engaging and motivating patients, leading to suboptimal outcomes. Virtual reality (VR) technology has emerged as a promising tool in medical rehabilitation, offering interactive and immersive environments to enhance therapy outcomes. This thesis presents the development of a VR-based rehabilitation program tailored for stroke patients, aiming to improve motor function, enhance engagement, and optimize recovery. Chapter 1 provides an introduction to the research topic, highlighting the background of the study, problem statement, objectives, limitations, scope, significance, structure of the thesis, and definition of key terms. The literature review in Chapter 2 explores existing research on VR-based rehabilitation interventions, motor recovery mechanisms, stroke rehabilitation challenges, technology acceptance, and patient outcomes. Chapter 3 details the research methodology, including the study design, participant recruitment criteria, intervention protocol, outcome measures, data collection procedures, data analysis methods, ethical considerations, and limitations. The research design incorporates a mixed-methods approach to evaluate the effectiveness and acceptability of the VR-based rehabilitation program among stroke patients. Chapter 4 presents a comprehensive discussion of the findings, analyzing quantitative and qualitative data to assess the impact of the VR-based rehabilitation program on motor function, engagement levels, user experience, and therapeutic outcomes. The results highlight the potential benefits of incorporating VR technology in stroke rehabilitation and offer insights into optimizing program design and implementation. Chapter 5 concludes the thesis by summarizing key findings, discussing implications for clinical practice and future research directions, and highlighting the significance of integrating VR technology into rehabilitation programs for stroke patients. The study contributes to advancing the field of medical rehabilitation by demonstrating the feasibility and effectiveness of a VR-based approach in enhancing motor recovery and patient engagement following stroke. Overall, this thesis underscores the importance of innovative technology solutions in improving rehabilitation outcomes for stroke survivors and provides valuable insights for healthcare professionals, researchers, and policymakers seeking to enhance the quality of care and support for individuals with stroke-related disabilities.