Exploring the Impact of Virtual Reality in Physiotherapy: A Review of Current Applications

Abstract

The integration of virtual reality (VR) in physiotherapy represents a promising frontier in enhancing patient rehabilitation outcomes. This review investigates the current applications and efficacy of VR in physiotherapy by analyzing secondary data from recent studies and systematic reviews. VR technologies offer immersive, engaging, and customizable environments that can be tailored to individual therapeutic needs, potentially increasing patient motivation and adherence to rehabilitation programs. The review categorizes existing VR applications across various physiotherapy domains, including musculoskeletal, neurological, and pediatric rehabilitation. Evidence suggests that VR interventions can lead to significant improvements in motor function, pain management, and cognitive engagement compared to traditional methods. However, challenges such as technology accessibility, user interface design, and the need for rigorous clinical trials persist. This study underscores the necessity of continued research to establish standardized protocols and to further understand the long-term effects of VR in clinical settings. By highlighting both the opportunities and limitations of VR in physiotherapy, this review aims to inform health professionals and guide future research into the optimization of VR-based interventions for diverse patient populations.