Effectiveness of virtual reality-based rehabilitation on the upper extremity motor function of stroke patients: A protocol for systematic review and meta-analysis

Introduction: Upper extremity deficits (UED) is a common and impactful complication among stroke survivors. Virtual reality (VR)-based rehabilitation holds potential for enhancing rehabilitation intensity and engagement by stimulating tasks. While several clinical studies have examined the effectiveness and safety of VR-based rehabilitation, there is a need for further research to improve consistency in outcomes. Materials and methods: The study will incorporate randomized controlled trials (RCTs) concerning the effects of VR-based rehabilitation on upper extremity (UE) function in stroke survivors. A comprehensive search of databases including PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, Scopus, Cinahl, China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), Wan-fang, and Chinese Biology Medicine Database will be performed from inception to the start of the study. Primary outcomes will focus on upper limb motor function assessments such as the Fugl-Meyer Upper Extremity (FMUE), Box and Block Test (BBT), Wolf Motor Function Test (WMFT), and Action Research Arm Test (ARAT). Secondary outcomes related to activities of daily living will include the Barthel Index (BI) and Functional Independence Measure (FIM). Research selection, data extraction, and quality assessment will be independently conducted by two researchers. The recently revised Cochrane risk of bias tool will be employed to evaluate study quality. Meta-regression and subgroup analyses will be utilized to identify effective therapy delivery modes and patterns. The assessment, development, and evaluation of recommendations approach will be applied to achieve a robust conclusion. Discussion: This study provides a rigorous synthesis to evaluate optimal parameters—specifically intensity and duration—for VR-based rehabilitation interventions aimed at enhancing UE function in stroke survivors. Our secondary objective is to assess the impact of these parameters on rehabilitation outcomes. We anticipate an accurate, transparent, and standardized review process that will yield evidence-based recommendations for integrating VR technology into treating upper extremity dysfunction in stroke patients, offering clinicians effective strategies to enhance upper limb function.