VIRTUAL REALITY Rehabiltation and PT .pptx

Virtual reality (VR) can be defined as the “use of interactive simulations created with computer hardware and software to present users with opportunities to engage in environments that appear and feel similar to real-world objects and events”.Virtual Reality enables the creation of a virtual environments in which immersion and interaction produce a sense of reality, where users engage and explore virtual environments in real-time. The content of these virtual environments can be created for specific purposes, such as gaming or education for example. The virtual reality technique is currently widely used in clinic and telerehabilitation.

1. VIRTUAL REHABILITATION Dr. Yukta Suresh Telrandhe [email protected] II-MPT, Department of Neuro-Physiotherapy, Maharashtra Institute Of Physiotherapy, Latur Maharashtra, India – 413 531.

2. INTENTED LEARNING OBJECTIVEs At the end of session, participants will be able to know about Who is the inventor of virtual rehabilitation? Advantages and disadvantages of VR Use of VR in Neuro-physiotherapy. Application of VR Benefits of VR 8/25/2024 3

3. INVENTOR Virtual reality therapy (VRT) - Max North (1996).

4. INTRODUCTION Virtual reality therapy (VRT), also known as virtual reality immersion therapy (VRIT), Simulation for therapy (SFT), Virtual reality exposure therapy (VRET), and Computerized CBT (CCBT), is the use of virtual reality technology for psychological or occupational therapy and in affecting virtual rehabilitation. Patients receiving virtual reality therapy navigate through digitally crated environments and complete specially designed tasks often tailored to treat a specific ailment; and is designed to isolate the user from their surrounding sensory inputs and give the illusion of immersion inside a computer-generated, interaction virtual environment. This technology has a demonstrated clinical benefit as an adjunctive analgesic during burn wound dressing and other painful medical procedures. Technology can range from a simple PC and keyboard setup, to a modern virtual reality headset. It is widely used as an alternative form of exposure therapy, in which patients interact with harmless virtual representations of traumatic stimuli in order to reduce fear responses.

5. Virtual rehabilitation represents a significant shift in how therapeutic services are delivered, offering flexibility, personalization, and potentially greater engagement for patients. As technology continues to advance, the potential for virtual rehabilitation to enhance recovery and improve patient outcomes will likely grow. Virtual rehabilitation in Neurophysiotherapy is a rapidly growing field that leverages technology to enhance the treatment of patients with neurological conditions. It involves the use of virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), and other digital tools to create interactive and immersive environments where patients can engage in therapeutic exercises and activities tailored to their specific needs.

6. It has proven to be especially effective at treating PTSD, and shows considerable promise in treating a variety of neurological and physical condition. Virtual reality therapy has also been used to help stroke patients regain muscle control, to treat other disorders such as body dysmorphic, and to improve social skills in those diagnosed with autism.

7. APPLICATIONS Virtual rehabilitation Psychological therapy

8. Virtual Rehabilitation It is a psychological concept in which a therapeutic patient’s training is based entirely on or augmented by virtual reality simulation exercises. If there is no conventical therapy provided, the rehabilitation is said to be “virtual reality-augmented.”

9. ADVANTAGES Virtual Rehabilitation offers a number of advantages compared to conventional therapeutic methods: It is entertaining, thus motivating the patient Potential for involvement of the patients stimulus modalities for more realistic environments for treatment. It provides objective outcome measures of therapy efficacy (limb velocity, range of movement, error rates, game scores, etc.) These data are transparently stored by the computer running the simulation and can be made available on the internet. Virtual rehabilitation can be performed in the patient’s home and monitored at a distance (becoming telerehabilitation).

10. The patient feels more actively involved in the desensitization. The patient may “forget” they are in treatment or undergoing observation resulting in more authentic expressions. It is effective for hospitals to reduce their costs because of lowered cost of medicine and equipment. Great impact of virtual reality on pain relief.

11. DISADVANTAGES Cost effectiveness Treatment effectiveness: Migrating back to reality from virtual reality VR sickness Ethical and legal considerations

12. Technologies Used Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) : VR creates a fully immersive environment, while AR overlays digital information on the real world. These technologies help in creating interactive sessions where patients can perform exercises or simulate real-world tasks. Telehealth Platforms : These are used for real-time communication between patients and healthcare providers. They can include video conferencing tools, specialized rehabilitation software, and mobile health apps. Wearable Devices and Sensors : These devices monitor patients' movements and provide real-time feedback on their performance. Examples include motion sensors, smartwatches, and body-worn cameras. Gaming Consoles and Software : Some rehabilitation programs use gaming consoles like Microsoft Kinect, which can track body movements and offer an engaging way to perform exercises.

13. Applications in Rehabilitation Physical Rehabilitation : VR is commonly used for physical therapy, helping patients recover from injuries, surgeries, or conditions like stroke. Exercises can be customized to target specific muscle groups or movements and can be adjusted for difficulty as the patient progresses. Cognitive Rehabilitation : Virtual environments can be used to improve cognitive functions such as memory, attention, and problem-solving skills, particularly in patients with neurological conditions like traumatic brain injury or dementia. Speech and Language Therapy : Virtual environments can simulate social situations where patients can practice speech and communication skills, which is particularly beneficial for those recovering from strokes or dealing with developmental disorders. Pain Management : VR can distract patients from pain or anxiety during physical therapy sessions or even surgical procedures, making them more tolerable.

14. BENEFITS Accessibility : VR rehabilitation can be accessed from home, making it easier for patients with mobility issues or those living in remote areas to receive consistent therapy. Engagement : The interactive and often gamified nature of VR therapy can increase patient motivation and adherence to rehabilitation programs. Customization : Virtual rehab programs can be tailored to the specific needs and progress of the patient, offering a personalized approach to rehabilitation. Data Tracking and Feedback : The use of sensors and digital tools allows for precise tracking of a patient’s progress, which can be shared with healthcare providers for better monitoring and adjustment of therapy plans.

15. Applications in Neuro Physiotherapy Stroke Rehabilitation : Virtual rehabilitation is extensively used in stroke rehabilitation to help patients regain motor functions, improve balance, and enhance cognitive abilities. VR environments can simulate real-life scenarios, such as walking down a street or reaching for objects, which helps in retraining the brain and muscles.

16. Parkinson’s Disease Patients with Parkinson’s disease can benefit from virtual rehabilitation through exercises that focus on improving gait, balance, and coordination. VR can provide a safe and controlled environment for these patients to practice movements that might be challenging in the real world.

17. Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) Virtual environments can be used to improve motor skills, cognitive functions, and emotional regulation in patients recovering from TBI. VR tasks can be designed to challenge and stimulate different areas of the brain, promoting neuroplasticity.

18. Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Virtual rehabilitation can help manage symptoms such as muscle weakness, spasticity, and coordination issues in MS patients. It provides a platform for low-impact exercises that can be adjusted to the patient’s physical abilities.

19. Cerebral Palsy Children and adults with cerebral palsy can benefit from VR-based exercises that focus on improving motor control, strength, and balance. The engaging nature of VR can make therapy more enjoyable and effective, especially for younger patients.

20. Technologies Used Virtual Reality (VR) Headsets : VR headsets immerse the patient in a 3D environment where they can interact with virtual objects, navigate through spaces, and perform exercises designed to target specific neurological deficits. Augmented Reality (AR) : AR overlays digital content onto the real world, allowing patients to interact with virtual objects while still being aware of their physical surroundings. This can be useful for tasks that require both real-world interaction and digital guidance. Motion Capture Systems : These systems track the patient’s movements in real-time and provide feedback, allowing for precise monitoring of motor function and progress. Examples include devices like the Microsoft Kinect or specialized sensors worn by the patient. Haptic Feedback Devices : These devices provide tactile feedback to the patient, simulating the sensation of touch or resistance. This is particularly useful in neuro physiotherapy for retraining motor skills and improving sensory-motor integration. Computerized Cognitive Training : Virtual environments can be used for cognitive rehabilitation, where patients engage in tasks that improve memory, attention, executive function, and other cognitive skills affected by neurological conditions.

21. Benefits in Neuro Physiotherapy Personalized Therapy : Virtual rehabilitation can be tailored to the specific needs and progress of each patient. Exercises can be adjusted in real-time based on the patient’s performance, providing a personalized therapy experience. Enhanced Engagement : The immersive and interactive nature of VR makes therapy sessions more engaging for patients, which can lead to higher motivation and better adherence to rehabilitation programs. Safe Environment : VR allows patients to practice movements and tasks in a controlled environment, reducing the risk of falls or injuries that could occur in real-world settings. This is particularly important for neuro patients with impaired balance or coordination. Remote Access : Virtual rehabilitation can be conducted at home, making it accessible for patients who have difficulty traveling to a clinic. This is especially beneficial for individuals with mobility issues or those living in remote areas. Objective Data Collection : The use of sensors and motion capture technology allows for precise tracking of a patient’s movements, providing objective data that can be used to monitor progress and adjust therapy plans as needed.

22. Challenges Technology Barriers : Not all patients have access to the necessary technology, such as VR headsets or high-speed internet, which can limit the reach of virtual rehabilitation in neuro physiotherapy. Technical Skills : Both patients and healthcare providers need to be familiar with the technology used in virtual rehabilitation. Lack of technical skills can be a barrier to effective therapy. Cost : The initial setup for virtual rehabilitation can be expensive, particularly when specialised equipment is required. However, this cost may be offset by the long-term benefits of remote therapy and reduced need for in-person sessions. Limited Physical Interaction : Some Neurophysiotherapy techniques require hands-on guidance from a therapist, which can be challenging to replicate in a virtual environment.

23. Future Directions AI and Machine Learning : The integration of AI could lead to more adaptive rehabilitation programs that adjust in real-time to the patient’s performance and provide predictive analytics to guide therapy. Neuroplasticity and VR : Continued research into how VR can enhance neuroplasticity—the brain’s ability to reorganise itself—could lead to more effective rehabilitation strategies for neuro patients. Multisensory Integration : Advances in haptic feedback and multisensory integration could provide more realistic and effective therapy experiences, helping to better simulate real-world challenges. Tele-Neurorehabilitation Networks : Expanding telehealth networks for neurorehabilitation could provide more standardized and accessible care, particularly for underserved populations.  Virtual rehabilitation in neuro physiotherapy offers a promising approach to enhancing recovery and improving quality of life for patients with neurological conditions. As technology continues to evolve, the potential to deliver more effective, engaging, and accessible therapy will likely increase.

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