Introduction: Stroke causes brain damage that can directly affect movement and sensations of the upper limb. Upper limb function plays an important role in activities of daily living, which is why improving upper limb function is a key element in rehabilitation. Recently, virtual reality systems have been used more often in the field of stroke rehabilitation as they can retain patients' interest and motivation. In addition, virtual reality can increase the intensity of purposeful movement, which is required for inducing brain neuroplasticity. Purpose: The purpose of this bachelor’s thesis is to review the existing research about efficiency of virtual reality training, using market-accessible systems, developed as entertainment electronics, added to physiotherapy to improve upper limb function after stroke. Methods: Our research included articles written in English and found in the databases PEDro, PubMed, ScienceDirect, Cochrane and CINAHL. Results: Based on the criteria, eleven research studies published between 2008 and 2018 were included in the literature review. The research studies included from 20 to 235 patients, the treatment period lasted from two to eight weeks and PEDro scores ranged between 5 and 8. Virtual reality training added to physiotherapy was efficient in improving upper limb function, shoulder and elbow joint flexibility, activation of flexors and improving hand skills. Playstation Eyetoy can effectively improve the performance of the activities of daily living and Nintendo Wii can increase patients’ motivation. Discussion and conclusion: Six research studies reported about benefits of virtual reality training added to physiotherapy. Additional research with a more uniform treatment period and identifying long-term effects would help to provide clearer results of virtual reality training added to physiotherapy.
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