VR

virtual reality

3D synthetic digital environment which allows multiple degrees of freedom for the user to interact with the environment

VR is fully ___ and synthetic

immersive

overlays existing environment

augmented reality

mixed reality

real-world elements and virtual elements interact in real-time

types of VR equipment

• mobile

• standalone

• PC/console

mobile VR

uses a smartphone as the screen and processing power

standalone VR

wireless experience where hardware is built directly into the headset

PC/console VR

immersive experience at a higher price point, tethered with cables

Why VR in OT?

• significant improvements in upper-limb distal motor function and postural control

• cognitive benefits

• adaptable to the client’s needs

• balance training, postural control, gait improvement, cognitive tasks, and fine motor tasks

clinical application of VR in orthopedics

• ROM

• strengthening

• pain distraction

clinical application of VR in neurological

• motor retraining

• balance

clinical application of VR in pediatrics

• play

• social skills

• attention

• sensory

clinical application of VR in mental health

• exposure therapy

• anxiety management

clinical application of VR in geriatrics

• fall prevention

• cognition

• strength

• coordination

where is VR emerging?

• stroke rehab

• UE rehab

• grocery shopping/ADL simulations

• exposure therapy environments

  • crowds

  • stores

advantages of VR in OT

1. safe, controlled environments

2. real-world simulation

3. immediate feedback

4. easily graded activities

barriers of VR in OT

1. cost and accessibility

2. learning curve

3. side effects or efficiency

4. transfer to a real-world

how to document VR?

highlight the clinical reasoning and application behind using the technology to meet functional goals

• how was VR integrated

• observed outcomes or responses

• confirmation that VR is part of a treatment plan

VR is an intervention that requires ______ to prevent falls or other injury

supervision

depending on software used, you must ensure you maintain _____

HIPAA

all risks, benefits, and expected outcomes need to be disclosed in detail

informed consent

although beneficial, take into consideration this may not be feasible for all _____

populations

Is VR the intervention in itself?

NO- it should be used as the tool to deliver the intervention and should only enhance delivery or outcomes