Video augmented mirror therapy for upper extremity rehabilitation after stroke: a randomized controlled trial

Purpose To investigate the effects of mirror therapy using a newly developed video augmented wearable reflection device on reach-to-grasp motor control and upper extremity motor function. Methods Participants were randomly allocated to one of three groups: mirror therapy using a video augmented wearable reflection device group (MTVADG), n = 12; traditional mirror therapy group (TMTG), n = 12; and control group (CG), n = 12. Participants in the MTVADG and TMTG received conventional rehabilitation in addition to mirror therapy. Motor control during the reach-to-grasp movement was assessed using kinematic analysis. Each participant’s upper extremity motor function was assessed using the Fugl-Meyer Assessment, Manual Function Test, and Box and Block Test. Results While both the MTVADG and TMTG showed significantly improved reach-to-grasp movement. The MTVADG showed greater efficiency in kinematic performance than the TMTG. Moreover, while both the MTVADG and TMTG showed improved upper extremity motor function, the MTVADG showed significantly greater improvement in proximal upper limb function compared to the TMTG. Conclusion Our results suggested that mirror therapy using a video augmented wearable reflection device is more efficient compared to traditional mirror therapy for patients with stroke. Clinical trial registration unique identifier KCT0003047.