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Virtual reality for multiple sclerosis rehabilitation

De Keersmaecker E, Guida S, Denissen S, Dewolf L, Nagels G, Jansen B, Beckwée D, Swinnen E

The Cochrane database of systematic reviews, 2025

1,294 participants · 11 citations

Abstract

Background: Multiple sclerosis (MS) is the most common neurological disease in young adults. Virtual reality (VR) offers a promising rehabilitation tool by providing controllable, personalised environments for safe, adaptable and engaging training. Virtual reality can be tailored to patients' motor and cognitive skills, enhancing motivation through exciting scenarios and feedback.

Objectives: Primary objective To assess the effects of virtual reality interventions compared with an alternative or no intervention on lower limb and gait function, and balance and postural control in people with MS. Secondary objective To assess the effects of virtual reality interventions compared with an alternative or no intervention on upper limb function, cognitive function, fatigue, global motor function, activity limitation, participation restriction and quality of life, and adverse events in people with MS.

Search methods: We identified relevant articles through electronic searches of CENTRAL, MEDLINE, Embase, PEDro, CINAHL and Scopus. We also searched trials registries (ClinicalTrials.gov and the WHO ICTRP search portal) and checked reference lists. We carried out all searches up until August 2022.

Selection criteria: We included only (quasi-)randomised controlled trials (RCTs) that assessed virtual reality interventions, defined as "an artificial, computer-generated simulation or creation of a real-life environment or situation allowing the user to navigate through and interact with",…

How strong is the evidence?

Evidence Hub reads this as a meta-analysis, done in people. Its evidence level is 1 of 5 (Highest · pooled evidence). Pooled evidence from several studies sits at the top of the evidence pyramid. Reported size: 1,294 participants or records.

How the five levels of evidence work. The level is assigned automatically from the abstract and can be wrong, so check the paper.

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