Your PT will likely use several different techniques to help you return to your normal level of activity.
One relatively new tool that some therapists are incorporating into their practice isvirtual reality (VR).
But can virtual reality be used in a rehabilitation setting?
Verywell / Jessica Olah
Verywell / Jessica Olah
What Is Virtual Reality?
A virtual reality headset is a machine that is worn on your head at the level of your eyes.
Some VR headsets also have an accompanying earpiece that supplies auditory input to the user.
And as the VR user moves, the virtual world that they are seeing moves with them.
Although VR headsets have been in development for years, only recently has their use become commonplace.
Virtual reality devices may be used to distract patients during dental procedures.
But can virtual reality devices be used in a rehab setting?
Can full immersion in a virtual environment help improve rehab outcomes?
How can they be used, are they safe, and does research support their use for various diagnoses?
VR Use in Physical Therapy
Why use VR versus other forms of physical therapy?
Can using VR really help you achieve your rehab goals, or is it just a novelty?
You are more likely to be motivated during your rehab if it is fun and enjoyable.
Virtual reality rehab may be just the thing to motivate you to participate in physical therapy.
There are several instances where virtual reality headsets and devices can be used in physical therapy.
People with various diagnoses might be able to benefit from its use.
Vestibular Rehab
Your vestibular system works to coordinate your head movements and positions with your eye movements.
Sometimes, an impairment in your vestibular system may cause vertigo and difficulty maintaining upright position.
Virtual reality headsets may be used to create situations that challenge your visual system while your are investibular rehab.
Finding novel ways to incorporate play activities into rehab may be key to getting proper functional movement.
While wearing the VR headset, video may be displayed that requires you to reach overhead in various directions.
Or you may have balance problems after anankle sprainor knee surgery.
No participant suffered any injury as a result of any intervention.
The use of VR in rehab may have boosted the functional mobility of patients with Parkinson’s disease.
Similar results were found in another study examining the effects of VR rehab to patients after stroke.
Is VR Safe in Physical Therapy?
Initial studies regarding its use show that there is very little risk to using VR in physical therapy applications.
They can alter their treatment approach to ensure that your remain safe.
A Word From Verywell
Going through a course of rehab can be tough.
Virtual reality in rehab may help you improve mobility to achieve your physical therapy goals.
Wubenhorst NM.Optokinetic stimulation as a treatment for imbalance with vestibular impairment: 3 case reports.Journal of Neurologic Physical Therapy.
