Implementation of VR for upper limb rehabilitation after stroke (v1)

This study is open to adults aged 18 or older who have experienced a stroke. To take part, you need to have at least some movement in your affected arm, meaning you can lift it from your lap to a table, even if you can't do fiddly tasks like buttoning a shirt. You should also be able to use the NeuroVirt device on your own, or have a family member, carer, or healthcare worker who can help you. If you're using the device at home, you'll need a reliable Wi-Fi connection at least every three days.

However, some conditions mean you can't join the study. These include having other brain or spinal conditions, difficulty understanding instructions or giving your consent, or other arm problems like a frozen shoulder or severe arthritis. If you've had certain types of seizures (photosensitive epilepsy) in the last year, or have certain medical devices in your brain, you also won't be able to participate. The medical team will check all these things carefully.

If you join this study, it happens in two main stages. In the first stage, if you're in hospital, the research team will observe your usual arm therapy. If you're receiving therapy at home or as an outpatient, you'll be asked to keep a simple diary of your arm exercises for about two weeks. This stage doesn't involve any changes to your treatment.

In the second stage, if your local NHS site has started using the NeuroVirt system, and you're eligible, you'll be shown how to use it. You'll be encouraged to use NeuroVirt regularly, up to two hours a day, for at least four weeks, as instructed by your therapy team. You'll continue to receive your usual arm therapy at the same time. You might also be asked to fill out questionnaires at various times, keep an arm exercise diary (if an outpatient), and potentially take part in an online interview. The total length of your participation will depend on how long you receive rehabilitation.