Investigating the Feasibility and Translational Therapeutic Benefits of Overground, Fully Immersive Virtual Reality (VR) Gait Rehabilitation Therapies for Stroke Survivors
The purpose of this study is to evaluate a new virtual reality (VR)-based rehabilitation program designed to help stroke survivors improve their walking abilities in real-world settings. By comparing immersive VR-assisted overground gait therapy to contemporary non-immersive, treadmill-based VR therapy (i.e., C-Mill), the investigators aim to determine its effectiveness in enhancing mobility and quality of life for stroke survivors.
• Diagnosis: Anischemic or hemorrhagic stroke verified by imaging, confirmed by the patient's physician, and 1-6 months post-stroke (subacute phase)
• Motor Impairment Level: Functional Ambulation Category (FAC) 3-5, showing moderate impairment while still allowing safe participation in gait tasks.
• Cognitive Function: Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) score ≥ 24 or Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) score \>= 20, indicating sufficient cognitive function to participate in the study.
• Exercise Clearance: Approval from a physician for participation in exercise- and VR-based interventions.
• Rehabilitation Need: 10-Meter Walk Test \<1.0 m/s, as timed by a PT during screening, indicating a need for functional rehabilitation.
• Consent: Must be able to provide informed consent for themselves.