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People living with chronic incomplete spinal cord injury (iSCI) often face severe motor impairments that limit their independence. Traditional rehabilitation primarily utilizes physical exercise to regain strength. However, clinicians are now exploring innovative technologies to enhance these outcomes. Recent research suggests that incorporating virtual walking therapy SCI into standard protocols can significantly improve walking performance and stability.
Researchers conducted a single-blinded randomized controlled trial to evaluate a combined intervention. The study included thirty-eight participants with chronic iSCI who underwent eighteen sessions over six weeks. One group received the experimental intervention, which combined virtual walking (VW) with therapeutic physical exercise (PE). The control group performed the same exercise program but used a placebo virtual walking setup. The team measured gait performance using the 10-meter walk test and assessed balance through center of mass movement.
The experimental group showed remarkable progress compared to the control group. Specifically, those who engaged in virtual walking therapy SCI reduced their 10-meter walk test time by 36.5%. Meanwhile, the control group only experienced a 4.5% reduction. Furthermore, these benefits were not temporary. The experimental group maintained their improved walking speed throughout the 12-week follow-up period. This suggests that the intervention induces lasting changes in motor control.
The success of this intervention likely stems from its effect on the mirror neuron system. By providing a visual illusion of walking, the therapy stimulates motor areas in the brain. Consequently, this neural activation complements the physical effort of exercise. Therefore, patients develop better coordination and control over their movements. Integrating virtual walking therapy SCI into rehabilitation helps bridge the gap between passive exercise and functional recovery.
Beyond walking speed, the study also focused on static and dynamic balance. Participants in the experimental group demonstrated significant reductions in center of mass movement during various tasks. This improvement translates to better stability while standing, sitting, and turning. Because balance is crucial for preventing falls, these findings are highly relevant for long-term patient safety and confidence.
Traditional training focuses mainly on physical movement and muscle strengthening. In contrast, virtual walking therapy SCI uses visual illusions to activate specific brain regions, like the mirror neuron system, which helps the nervous system relearn walking patterns.
The clinical trial showed that patients maintained their improvements in gait and balance for up to 12 weeks after the intervention. This indicates that the therapy may facilitate long-term neuroplastic changes.
This study specifically focused on people with incomplete spinal cord injuries. Patients with some residual motor or sensory function may benefit most, though further research is needed to determine its efficacy in complete injury cases.
Disclaimer: This content is for informational and educational purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice or a substitute for professional healthcare. Refer to the latest local and national guidelines for clinical practice.
References
Mollà-Casanova S et al. Effect of a virtual walking and therapeutic exercise-based intervention on gait and balance in people with incomplete spinal cord injury. PM R. 2026 May 19. doi: 10.1002/pmrj.70140. PMID: 42157052.
Mollà-Casanova S et al. Effect of a virtual walking and exercise-based intervention on muscle strength and activation in people with incomplete spinal cord injury. Sci Rep. 2025 Jan 24;15(1):3144. doi: 10.1038/s41598-025-86845-8.
Villiger M et al. Home-based virtual reality-augmented training improves lower limb muscle strength, motor function, and gait speed in individuals with spinal cord injury: a consolidated randomized controlled trial. Neurorehabil Neural Repair. 2017;31(5):441-457.
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