Virtual Reality Neurorehabilitation for Mobility in Spinal Cord Injury: A Structured Review

Innov Clin Neurosci, 2019 · DOI: · Published: January 1, 2019

Spinal Cord Injury Assistive Technology Neurorehabilitation

Simple Explanation

This review examines the use of virtual reality (VR) therapy to improve mobility in patients with spinal cord injuries (SCI). VR uses technology like headsets and tracking systems to create interactive, three-dimensional experiences. VR systems vary in immersion levels. Immersive systems use headsets for a comprehensive visual scene. Nonimmersive systems use monitors, keyboards, and mice. VR technology is becoming more affordable and applicable in healthcare, including for CNS disorders. The review analyzes nine studies using VR for mobility rehabilitation in SCI patients, with six reporting positive mobility outcomes. VR games may improve balance and mobility by practicing movements used in real life.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

Nine studies analyzed, various sample sizes (range 6-31)

Evidence Level

Mixed: Case series and Randomized Controlled Trials

Key Findings

1
VR therapy shows potential benefits in improving mobility outcomes, including FRT, BBS scores, gait speed, muscle strength, and WISCI-II in SCI patients.
2
Studies using VR games to facilitate mobility demonstrate positive results in FRT, BBS scores, and gait speed, suggesting improvements in balance and mobility within the VR environment.
3
A BMI-based gait protocol combined with VR resulted in improvements in tactile sensation, proprioception, vibration, and nociception, as well as voluntary muscle control in SCI patients.

Research Summary

This review aimed to analyze published data on VR for improving mobility in SCI patients. The analysis included nine articles, assessing functional mobility changes. Six of the nine studies reported significantly positive mobility outcomes, while some noted high patient satisfaction even without significant mobility changes. The review concludes that while VR shows promising outcomes for SCI rehabilitation, the quality and scope of the data are limited, necessitating larger, well-designed trials to validate VR as a definitive treatment method.

Practical Implications

Rehabilitation Tool

VR can be implemented as a tool in spinal cord injury rehabilitation to improve mobility.

Motivation and Engagement

VR games can be used to motivate patient participation in therapy.

Personalized Therapy

VR offers regimented treatment programs suited toward the individual needs of each patient.

Study Limitations

1
Varied VR types and protocols across studies.
2
Small sample sizes in many studies.
3
Diversity of participants in injury type, time, level, and classification hinders generalizability.

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