A Study of Neurorehabilitation Based on Robotics, Brain-Computer Interface (BCI) and Virtual Reality (VR) in Patients with Upper Limb Paresis Due to Stroke in the Early Rehabilitation Period
This clinical trial aims to investigate the effectiveness of a novel neurorehabilitation technology for treating stroke in adults. The study will evaluate a simulator that combines robotic orthosis, a non-invasive brain-computer interface (BCI), and a virtual reality (VR) display. The goal of this trial is to advance stroke rehabilitation by exploring the potential benefits of these cutting-edge technologies. Key Research Questions: Efficacy: Does the new simulator significantly improve arm function compared to standard rehabilitation techniques? BCI Technology: Which approach - motor imagery of only the paretic arm or both the paretic and healthy arm - yields greater functional improvements? VR Contribution: How does the integration of VR enhance rehabilitation outcomes? Safety and Tolerability: What potential side effects or adverse events may arise from using the new simulator? Participants who have suffered a stroke will undergo a standard rehabilitation course, during which 10-12 sessions will take place using the innovative simulator: a robotic device moves a patient's paralyzed arm at the command of a non-invasive brain-computer interface to perform a game task resembling real-life activities, augmented by a virtual reality display. Researchers will assess the impact of the new technology on arm function to determine its efficacy in promoting recovery.
• Signed written informed consent.
• Age 18 to 80 years at the time of stroke onset.
• Early rehabilitation period (up to 6 months post-stroke).
• Diagnosis of acute cerebrovascular accident confirmed by MRI or CT.
• Upper limb paresis severity between 0 and 3 on the 6-point Medical Research Council (MRC) muscle strength scale.
• Ability and willingness to comply with the study protocol.
• Demonstrated motivation for rehabilitation.