Virtual Reality for Neurological Rehabilitation
Virtual Reality (VR) exercise for people with neurological disabilities is revolutionising rehabilitation
Neurological disabilities can be life-altering, often requiring extensive rehabilitation to regain lost functions. Traditional physiotherapy exercises can be repetitive and lack engagement, making it challenging for clients to stay motivated. However, Virtual Reality (VR) exercise is changing the landscape of neurological rehabilitation.
The Transformative Benefits of VR Exercise:
Engagement and Motivation:
Traditional physiotherapy exercises can become monotonous, leading to reduced motivation and adherence. VR exercise, on the other hand, offers immersive and interactive experiences that make rehabilitation engaging and enjoyable. Clients can embark on virtual adventures, play games, or participate in sports simulations, making the recovery journey more exciting and motivating [1].
Customised Rehabilitation Programs:
VR exercise platforms allow physiotherapists to tailor rehabilitation programs to each client’s unique needs and abilities. Whether it's focusing on regaining balance, improving coordination, or enhancing fine motor skills, VR can provide personalised workouts that adapt as clients progress, ensuring they receive targeted and effective therapy [2]. At Thrive Health Therapies we utilise a range of VR technologies to ensure the right fit for everyone. This includes the use of a range of accessibility features such as voice control, head control for those with upper limb deficits and hand control (rather than controller) for those with reduce hand function.
Enhanced Motor Function and Coordination:
VR exercise involves a wide range of movements and activities, which can help individuals with neurological disabilities improve their motor skills and coordination. The brain is challenged to adapt and rewire through these novel activities, potentially leading to improved functional abilities [3].
Facilitation of Neuroplasticity:
VR exercises provide the brain with new and engaging challenges, promoting neuroplasticity—the brain's ability to reorganise and adapt. This is particularly beneficial for individuals with neurological disabilities, as it can help restore lost functionality and improve cognitive function [4].
Data Tracking:
Physiotherapists can use VR technology to track client progress and adjust rehabilitation plans accordingly. This provides an additional motivational tool as individuals with neurological disabilities can monitor their progress and set goals.
VR is a groundbreaking approach to neurological rehabilitation, offering engagement, customisation, and a pathway to enhanced recovery.
Thrive Health Therapies embraces this innovation to provide our clients with a more enjoyable and effective rehabilitation experience, ultimately helping them to regain their independence and improve their quality of life.
What we offer
Thrive Health Therapies offers 1:1 neurological physiotherapy sessions that incorporate VR and other technologies at our clinic in Findon for clients with neurological disabilities.
Contact us today to find out more about the services we offer.
References:
"Virtual Reality Rehabilitation Versus Conventional Physical Therapy for Improving Balance and Gait in Parkinson's Disease Patients: A Randomized Controlled Trial," Medical Science Monitor, 2020. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7086342/
"The Potential of Virtual Reality for Rehabilitation," The Journal of Nervous and Mental Disease, 2020.https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6943606/
"Virtual Reality Training for Upper Limb in Subacute Stroke (VIRTUES): A Multicenter Randomized Controlled Trial," Neurology, 2020.https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6979018/
"Neuroplasticity in the Context of Virtual Reality-Enhanced Rehabilitation for People with Parkinson's Disease," Frontiers in Aging Neuroscience, 2019.https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6811862/