The Effect of Virtual Reality Feedback Training Using Smart Insoles on Spasticity, Balance, and Gait in Chron-Ic Stroke Patients

BACKGROUND: This study aimed to investigate the effects of a smart insole-based virtual reality program on balance and gait in patients with chronic stroke. The intention was to provide baseline data for an intervention program designed to improve balance and gait in chronic stroke patients within clinical practice. OBJECTIVE: Thirty-five chronic stroke patients were randomly divided into two groups: the experimental group, which received a smart insole-based virtual reality training program, and the control group, which received general physical therapy. METHODS: Prior to the initiation of this study, patients' balance ability was assessed using the Timed Up and Go (TUG) test, and Biorescue (Romberg OE, Romberg CE) was used for further evaluation. Affected step length, stride length, total double support, and cadence were measured to assess gait ability. RESULT: After the intervention, the experimental group showed a significant increase in TUG and Romberg test (OE, CE) values compared to the control group. Regarding gait ability, the experimental group showed significant increases in velocity, step length, and cadence post-intervention compared to pre-intervention scores, with differences significantly higher than those of the control group. CONCULSION: The conclusion of this study is that a virtual reality training program based on a smart insole is an effective intervention for chronic stroke patients and can serve as foundational data for clinical practice. It is also significant as an intervention method for chronic stroke patients who require long-term treatment.