Year: 2026 | Month: February | Volume: 16 | Issue: 2 | Pages: 287-299
DOI: https://doi.org/10.52403/ijhsr.20260232
Effect of Virtual Reality Training Versus Otago Exercises on Balance and Functional Independence in Subjects with Stroke
Vijayarangan Puja1, Ilapandu Lakshmana Rao2, Patchava Apparao3, Chintada Ganapati Swamy4
1MPT Neurology, Department of Neurology, GSL College of Physiotherapy, Dr. NTR University, Vijayawada, India.
2Associate Professor, Department of Neurology, Swatantra Institute of Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation, Dr. NTR University, Vijayawada, India.
3Principal, Department of Orthopaedics, Swatantra Institute of Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation, Dr. NTR University, Vijayawada, India.
4Associate Professor of Biostatistics, Department of Community Medicine, GSL Medical College, Dr. NTR University, Vijayawada, India.
Corresponding Author: Dr. Vijayarangan Puja (PT)
ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: Balance impairment is one of the most prevalent deficits following a stroke and is a major contributor to activity limitations and reduced functional independence. Virtual Reality (VR) training provides an engaging, task-specific environment and has gained attention for its potential benefits. The objective of the study was to compare the effects of Virtual Reality training and Otago exercise programs on balance and functional independence in individuals with stroke.
METHODS: Quasi-experimental study, where Sixty subjects with a clinical diagnosis of stroke were allocated into two groups using systematic random sampling. Group A (n = 30) received Virtual Reality training along with a standard rehabilitation program, whereas Group B (n = 30) received Otago exercises along with a standard rehabilitation program. Participants underwent intervention three times a week for eight weeks. The Berg Balance Scale and Modified Barthel Index were used to assess the effectiveness of the interventions.
RESULTS: Independent t-test was used to compare the mean differences between groups, and paired t-test was used to assess pre- and post-test differences. Both groups showed significant improvements within groups, whereas between-group comparison revealed that Virtual Reality training along with standard rehabilitation showed greater improvement than Otago exercises with standard rehabilitation.
CONCLUSION: Eight weeks of intervention led to significant post-test improvements in both groups. However, Virtual Reality training with standard rehabilitation was more effective than Otago exercises. This intervention can be incorporated in post-stroke rehabilitation to enhance balance and functional independence.
Key words: Post stroke, virtual reality training, Otago exercise program, Berg balance scale, Modified Barthel index