The Effects of an Augmented Reality-Based Mirror Therapy System in Patients With Stroke

Objective The aim of this study is to investigate the effects of an augmented reality-based mirror therapy system (MirrARm), developed using sensor-based tracking and visual feedback principles, on upper extremity motor recovery and functional activity levels in patients with stroke. Research Questions This study seeks to address the following questions: Does the MirrARm system improve upper extremity motor recovery and functional activity levels in patients with stroke? Are the effects of the MirrARm system on upper extremity motor recovery and functional activity levels greater than those of conventional mirror therapy in patients with stroke? Study Design and Comparison The MirrARm system will be compared with conventional mirror therapy to evaluate its effectiveness in patients with stroke. Participants and Procedures Participants will take part in a treatment program administered three days per week for a total duration of eight weeks. Outcome measures will be assessed at baseline (Week 0), at mid-intervention (Week 4), and at the end of the intervention period (Week 8).

Inclusion Criteria: * First-ever unilateral stroke diagnosed by a specialist physician, * Presence of post-stroke hemiplegia, * Age ≥ 18 years, * Time since stroke between 3 and 12 months, * Score ≥ 24 on the Standardized Mini-Mental State Examination, * Upper extremity motor score ≤ 22 on the Fugl-Meyer Assessment. Exclusion Criteria: * Inability to sit independently in a supported chair, * Insufficient communication ability due to aphasia, * Presence of structural and/or acquired impairments limiting active movement of the unaffected upper limb, * Presence of visual or visual-perceptual impairments, * Presence of unilateral neglect, * Presence of neurological, psychiatric, cognitive, or oncological disorders other than stroke.