VR-ACT after Stroke

Project led at CINEICC (Universidade de Coimbra) that aims to develop and pilot-test a self management, 8-week Virtual Reality (VR) program delivering Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) to support pain management and mental health in adults with chronic post-stroke pain. Using a parallel-group randomized controlled feasibility trial, the study compares (i) the VR-ACT intervention, consisting of eight 3D immersive skills-training modules (e.g., attentional and emotional regulation through mindful meditation practices, and fostering valued behavior change), with (ii) a sham VR control comprising eight 2D non-immersive video animations and distraction exercises delivered via a VR headset. The project adopts a mixed-methods evaluation (quantitative and qualitative, with qualitative content analysis supported by NVivo) and includes psychosocial outcomes as well as fMRI-based assessment of triple-network connectivity using Network Based Statistic methods. ISR-UC participates in the project, providing technical support for the development and integration of the VR delivery components/platform.