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Virtual Reality (VR) — Neurological Rehabilitation

Targeted task training in interactive virtual environment provides motor recovery in stroke and brain injury.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Fizik Tedavi ve Rehabilitasyon department. Book Appointment →

What is Virtual Reality (VR) — Neurological Rehabilitation?

Virtual reality (VR) gives the patient three-dimensional interactive experience using head-mounted display (HMD) or screen.

It is used in motor learning, balance, gait, upper extremity rehabilitation in stroke, traumatic brain injury, multiple sclerosis and Parkinson.

Plays a role in motor cortex reorganisation by inducing neuroplasticity; high motivation and feedback are advantages.

Symptoms

Targeted: post-stroke hemiparesis
Traumatic brain injury rehabilitation
Multiple sclerosis balance and gait disturbance
Parkinson freezing of gait and balance
Spinal cord injury upper extremity training
Cerebral palsy in children
Cognitive rehabilitation (attention, memory)

Risk Factors

VR sickness (cybersickness) — nausea, dizziness
Caution in epileptic patient (photosensitive seizure)
Vestibular disturbance and balance worsening
Eye strain and headache risk
Caution in dementia patient (confusion)
Severe cardiovascular disease (sudden movement)
Severe cervical pathology (HMD weight)

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Physical medicine and rehabilitation (PMR) physician must do programme planning
  • Definite consultation must be made for stroke and brain injury history
  • VR session must be terminated if dizziness/nausea is severe
  • If suitable, training period and intensity must be increased gradually

Treatment Methods

01
Customised VR programme by PMR physician
02
20–60 minute sessions, 3–5 days a week
03
Combining with conventional rehabilitation (not substitute)
04
Commercial systems (Wii, Nintendo Switch, custom VR)
05
Performance follow-up by data and feedback
06
Progressive task difficulty increase

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Fizik Tedavi ve Rehabilitasyon department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Fizik Tedavi ve Rehabilitasyon Department

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.