Meta-analysis on the impact of virtual reality technology on limb function and quality of life in stroke patients—application of virtual reality technology in rehabilitation training of stroke patients

Background: Stroke remains a leading cause of adult disability globally, with approximately 70% of survivors experiencing chronic upper limb impairment that severely impacts daily functioning. While virtual reality (VR)-based rehabilitation has gained attention, evidence remains inconsistent regarding its efficacy, particularly with technological advancements and long-term benefits. This meta-analysis updates a 2023 review by evaluating VR’s impact on motor recovery and quality of life in stroke patients, integrating recent randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and exploring underlying mechanisms. Methods: This meta-analysis adheres to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines and includes high-quality randomized controlled trials (RCTs) published between 01 January 2022, and 20 January 2025, from PubMed, Elsevier and Web of Science, focusing on the application of VR technology in the rehabilitation of stroke patients. Studies were assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool (RoB 2). Data were synthesized via random-effects models in Review Manager 5.3, with heterogeneity quantified by I2 statistics and sensitivity analyses to confirm robustness. Results: A total of twenty RCTs were included in the analysis, and the results of the meta-analysis indicated that VR technology significantly improved several key outcomes for stroke patients, including the Fugl-Meyer Upper Extremity (FMUE) score (Mean Difference (MD) = 7.47, 95%Confidence Interval (CI) (5.38–9.57), Z = 7.00, p < 0.001), the Box and Block Test score (MD = 5.84, 95% CI (2.49–9.20), Z = 3.41, p = 0.001), the Berg Balance Scale score (MD = 3.54, 95% CI (0.56–6.53), Z = 2.33, p = 0.020), and the Barthel Index score (MD = 4.57, 95% CI (1.33–7.80), Z = 2.77, p = 0.006). Conclusions: As an emerging rehabilitation intervention, VR technology can effectively promote the recovery of motor function in stroke patients and significantly improve their quality of life. The INPLASY Registration: INPLASY202520082.

Virtual reality; Stroke patients; Limb function; Quality of life; Meta-analysis

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