Design to investigate the efficacy of virtual reality (VR)- and gaming-based
interventions for improving upper extremity function poststroke.
Articles investigating gaming and VR methods of treatment for upper extremity
weakness were collected with 38 studies meeting inclusion criteria.

Random effects meta-analysis models were utilized to quantify (1) the proportional
recovery that occurs after VR or gaming; (2) the comparative treatment effect of VR
or gaming vs conventional physiotherapy; and (3) whether the benefit of virtual
reality differed based on participant characteristics or elements of the treatment.

On average, VR or gaming interventions produced an improvement of 28.5% of the
maximal possible improvement. Dose and severity of motor impairment did not
significantly influence rehabilitation outcomes. Treatment gains were significantly
larger overall (10.8%) when the computerized training involved a gaming component
vs just visual feedback.