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  4. Virtual rehabilitation for patients with osteoporosis or other musculoskeletal disorders: a systematic review

Virtual rehabilitation for patients with osteoporosis or other musculoskeletal disorders: a systematic review

Virtual Reality, 2024 · DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10055-024-00980-7 · Published: April 7, 2024

Assistive TechnologyRehabilitationMusculoskeletal Medicine

Simple Explanation

Osteoporosis is a widespread skeletal disease affecting many adults, causing fractures and related issues. Physical therapy is vital for rehabilitation, but patient engagement can be a challenge. Virtual rehabilitation is emerging as a popular tool for physical improvement by enabling control and real-time feedback.

Study Duration
Not specified
Participants
539 participants
Evidence Level
Systematic Review

Key Findings

  • 1
    Different virtual rehabilitation devices offer varying degrees of immersion and physical improvement.
  • 2
    Technology choice depends on the patient's care needs.
  • 3
    Virtual rehabilitation can match or improve traditional therapy and increase patient engagement.

Research Summary

This systematic review aimed to find effective virtual rehabilitation methods for physical improvement and engagement in people with osteoporosis or musculoskeletal disorders. The review identified four groups of virtual rehabilitation devices and found each supported physical improvement to different degrees with technology choice dependent on care need. Virtual rehabilitation can be as good as or better than traditional therapy, potentially boosting patient engagement.

Practical Implications

Technology choice

Select VR technology based on specific patient needs and desired outcomes (e.g., HMDs for gait, datagloves for dexterity).

Personalized Training

Adapt VR training schedules to individual patients to maximize engagement and minimize boredom or pain.

Exergame Design

Design user-friendly exergames with clear instructions and feedback, ensuring they can be performed in both seated and standing positions.

Study Limitations

  • 1
    Absence of a control group in some studies
  • 2
    Small sample sizes in some studies
  • 3
    Inclusion of studies with broad age ranges

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