Psychological outcomes of extended reality interventions in spinal cord injury rehabilitation: a systematic scoping review

Spinal Cord, 2025 · DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/s41393-024-01057-7 · Published: January 9, 2025

Assistive Technology Mental Health Neurorehabilitation

Simple Explanation

This review looks at how extended reality (XR) technologies, like virtual reality, augmented reality, and mixed reality, can affect the mental well-being of people undergoing spinal cord injury (SCI) rehabilitation. The goal is to understand how XR can be used to improve their psychological health. The review found that XR interventions, particularly virtual reality (VR), can positively influence psychological outcomes such as reducing depression and anxiety, and improving self-esteem. Participants also reported enjoyment, relaxation, and a sense of positive distraction when using VR. Overall, the review suggests that XR, especially VR, is a promising tool for supporting the psychological well-being of individuals during SCI rehabilitation. More research is needed to fully understand the long-term effects and how to best implement these technologies.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

111 (Men: 78.4%, Women: 21.6%)

Evidence Level

Systematic scoping review

Key Findings

1
VR interventions can provide enjoyment, relaxation, and a source of positive distraction for individuals with SCI.
2
VR interventions were shown to reduce depressive scores on the Patient Health Questionnaire 8 and 9.
3
Consistent reductions in Spielberger State-Trait Anxiety Inventory scores were reported for two participants undergoing VR DBT.

Research Summary

This systematic scoping review examined the psychological outcomes of using extended reality (XR) interventions in spinal cord injury (SCI) rehabilitation. It included 13 studies, all of which used virtual reality (VR) interventions. The review found that VR can improve psychological outcomes such as enjoyment, mindfulness, and confidence. It also showed improvements in depression, anxiety, and self-esteem. The authors conclude that immersive XR interventions, particularly VR, show promise for maintaining and improving psychological health during SCI rehabilitation, though more research is needed to explore the long-term effects.

Practical Implications

Clinical Practice

XR, particularly VR, can be integrated into SCI rehabilitation programs to address psychological well-being alongside physical rehabilitation.

Future Research

More longitudinal studies are needed to assess the long-term effects of XR interventions on psychological outcomes in SCI rehabilitation.

Technology Development

Future XR technologies should consider the potential for social disconnection in group settings and incorporate features to enhance social cues and interaction.

Study Limitations

1
The review only included VR interventions, excluding AR and MR interventions, which may have different psychological effects.
2
The heterogeneity of study designs made it difficult to draw cross-sample quality assessments.
3
Small sample sizes in some studies limit the generalizability of the findings.

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