Effects of Virtual Reality Therapy Intervention on Upper-Limb Rehabilitation in Patients with Guillain–Barré Syndrome: Systematic Review

Abstract

Introduction: Guillain–Barré syndrome (GBS) is an acute immune-mediated disorder of the peripheral nervous system that may result in persistent weakness, impaired motor control, sensory disturbances, fatigue, and reduced functional independence. Upper-limb impairment can affect reaching, grasping, manual dexterity, and activities of daily living. Virtual reality (VR)-based rehabilitation provides repetitive, task-oriented practice with interactive feedback and motivational elements. However, evidence regarding VR-based upper-limb rehabilitation in individuals with GBS remains limited. This systematic review aimed to determine the effects of VR-based rehabilitation on upperlimb function, coordination, and manual dexterity in adults with GBS.

Methods: A systematic review conducted using predefined eligibility criteria based on the Population, Intervention, Comparator, and Outcome framework. Studies involving adults aged ≥18 years with GBS considered. Eligible interventions included immersive, semi-immersive, or non-immersive VR-based rehabilitation targeting upper-limb function, delivered alone or in combination with conventional rehabilitation. Primary outcomes included upper-limb functional performance, coordination, and manual dexterity. Secondary outcomes included activities of daily living, functional independence, muscle strength, motor function, range of motion, grip strength, quality of life, fatigue, adherence, and adverse events. Two reviewers independently screened the studies and extracted relevant data.

Results: Ten studies were included. VR-based rehabilitation showed potential benefits for upper-limb function, coordination, manual dexterity, and related functional outcomes in adults with GBS. However, substantial heterogeneity observed across interventions and outcome measures.

Conclusion: VR-based rehabilitation may improve upper-limb and related functional outcomes in adults with GBS. Further high-quality studies needed to confirm its effectiveness and establish optimal rehabilitation protocols.