Virtual Reality in Physical Therapy
According to the ReGame VR website: “The ReGame VR lab focuses on promoting the sustainable, evidence-based integration of virtual reality (VR) and active video gaming systems into rehabilitation. We explore how VR-based therapy can improve motor learning, balance, functional mobility and participation in children and adults with neuromotor impairments. We evaluate motor learning paradigms in virtual environments to understand how task practice conditions impact motor learning processes and outcomes. Our mission is to produce clinically-relevant, high-quality evidence in the field of virtual rehabilitation.”
Dr. Lev Kalika of New York Dynamic Neuromuscular Rehabilitation & Physical Therapy has helped to pioneer a system of virtual reality-based physical therapy. According to a recent story published by Inc.com, the use of VR in physical therapy has yielded some very encouraging results. For patients recovering from strokes, surgeries, or injuries, VR-augmented rehabilitation has shown hope for recovery.
One of Dr. Kalika’s solutions, the Computer Assisted Rehabilitation Environment, aims to treat patients with back pain, ortho, neuro, sports med and walking disorders. VR techniques are used to manipulate and expedite the learning process in both real and virtual environments. By focusing a patient’s attention on the effects of their movements with his or her external focus, the patient comes closer to recovery.
See the full story here: http://www.concorde.edu/blog/physical-therapist-assistant-virtual-reality