| Objective: To explore the effect of action observation therapy based on virtual reality technology on dysphagia after stroke. Methods: Forty-two stroke patients with dysphagia were randomly assigned to an observational group (n=22) or a control group (n=20). Both groups received routine dysphagia rehabilitation. The observational group also received action observation therapy in virtual reality equipment. Standardized Swallowing Assessment (SSA), chronological parameters of swallowing and Penetration Aspiration Scale (PAS) were used to assess functional changes before and after treatment. Results: After 4 weeks of treatment, the oral transit time, swallow reaction time, pharyngeal transit time and laryngeal closure time of both groups were significantly shortened (P<0.05); except for laryngeal closure time, other chronological parameters of swallowing (oral transit time, swallow reaction time, pharyngeal transit time) in the observational group were significantly shortened as compared with those in the control group (P<0.05). After the treatment, the scores of SSA and PAS in both groups were significantly decreased (P<0.05), more significantly in the observational group than in the control group (P<0.05). Conclusion: The action observation therapy based on virtual reality technology can improve the swallowing function of patients with dysphagia after stroke. |
