Virtual Reality–driven stroke rehabilitation: A review of innovations for optimizing physical function and advancing Sustainable Development Goal 3

Maria Mustafa; Saima Riaz; M. Naveed Babur; Muhammad Salman Bashir; Rabia Jawa; Almina Shafiq

2026, Vol: 51, Issue: 3

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RMJ. 2026; 51(3): 879-882

Virtual Reality–driven stroke rehabilitation: A review of innovations for optimizing physical function and advancing Sustainable Development Goal 3

Maria Mustafa, Saima Riaz, M. Naveed Babur, Muhammad Salman Bashir, Rabia Jawa, Almina Shafiq.

Abstract
Objective: To evaluate the evidence for virtual reality (VR)-based therapies in stroke rehabilitation, focusing on effectiveness in motor and cognitive recovery.
Methodology: A comprehensive search of PubMed, ScienceDirect, Google Scholar, and Cochrane Library (2020-2025) yielded 847 articles. After screening, 30 studies (18 RCTs, 7 systematic reviews, 5 observational studies) met the criteria: adults with stroke, VR interventions, and measurable functional outcomes.
Results: Strong evidence indicates that combining VR with standard therapy improves upper limb function, balance, and gait. Moderate evidence supports VR's role in cognitive rehab and in keeping patients engaged. On its own, VR shows limited benefit for reducing spasticity or increasing strength. Main challenges include motion sickness (experienced by 15-30% of users), high equipment costs ($300-$3000+), and a lack of standardization.
Conclusion: VR is a valuable addition, not a substitute for conventional stroke rehab. Optimal outcomes are achieved when VR is combined with evidence-based treatments in personalized, patient-centered protocols. Future research should focus on affordable platforms, telerehabilitation, and AI-powered adaptive systems.

Key words: Virtual Reality, stroke rehab, neuroplasticity, mirror therapy.

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Pubmed Style

Mustafa M, Riaz S, Babur MN, Bashir MS, Jawa R, Shafiq A. Virtual Reality–driven stroke rehabilitation: A review of innovations for optimizing physical function and advancing Sustainable Development Goal 3. RMJ. 2026; 51(3): 879-882.

Web Style

Mustafa M, Riaz S, Babur MN, Bashir MS, Jawa R, Shafiq A. Virtual Reality–driven stroke rehabilitation: A review of innovations for optimizing physical function and advancing Sustainable Development Goal 3. https://www.rmj.org.pk/?mno=286289 [Access: August 19, 2026].

AMA (American Medical Association) Style

Mustafa M, Riaz S, Babur MN, Bashir MS, Jawa R, Shafiq A. Virtual Reality–driven stroke rehabilitation: A review of innovations for optimizing physical function and advancing Sustainable Development Goal 3. RMJ. 2026; 51(3): 879-882.

Vancouver/ICMJE Style

Harvard Style

Mustafa, M., Riaz, . S., Babur, . M. N., Bashir, . M. S., Jawa, . R. & Shafiq, . A. (2026) Virtual Reality–driven stroke rehabilitation: A review of innovations for optimizing physical function and advancing Sustainable Development Goal 3. RMJ, 51 (3), 879-882.

Turabian Style

Mustafa, Maria, Saima Riaz, M. Naveed Babur, Muhammad Salman Bashir, Rabia Jawa, and Almina Shafiq. 2026. Virtual Reality–driven stroke rehabilitation: A review of innovations for optimizing physical function and advancing Sustainable Development Goal 3. Rawal Medical Journal, 51 (3), 879-882.

Chicago Style

Mustafa, Maria, Saima Riaz, M. Naveed Babur, Muhammad Salman Bashir, Rabia Jawa, and Almina Shafiq. "Virtual Reality–driven stroke rehabilitation: A review of innovations for optimizing physical function and advancing Sustainable Development Goal 3." Rawal Medical Journal 51 (2026), 879-882.

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