Combined methods of rehabilitation of patients after stroke: virtual reality and traditional approach.

OBJECTIVES: The aim of the research was to verify the possibilities of using virtual reality in combination with classical approaches to the rehabilitation of patients after stroke. MATERIAL AND METHODS: As part of rehabilitation, we examined the possibilities of rehabilitation of the upper, lower limbs and fine mobility of the upper limbs in a selected group of patients that met the criteria for inclusion in a combined rehabilitation program using virtual reality with a focus on testing different approaches, devices and applications. At the same time, we tried to identify quantitative and qualitative parameters that could be objectively measured and based on them to evaluate the progress of patients in rehabilitation or in personalizing individual rehabilitation scenarios. RESULTS: In patients who underwent a combined method of rehabilitation, we observed progress in the development of their ability to improve motor skills. We identified various categories of parameters that can be evaluated by artificial intelligence methods, and we also identified that the key elements in the use of virtual reality as a rehabilitation method are the so-called "WOW" effect and the creation of an emotional change in the patient that motivates him to rehabilitate. CONCLUSION: We have shown that virtual reality methods have the potential to accelerate rehabilitation and increase the motivation of selected groups of patients after stroke.