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Updated: Nov 8, 2025
Author Spotlight: Enhancing Neurorehabilitation Through EEG, Motor Imagery, and Virtual Reality
Published on: May 10, 2024
Virtual reality is a feasible intervention platform in multiple sclerosis: A pilot protocol and acute improvements in
Michael T Shaw1, Maria J Palmeri1, Martin Malik1
1Department of Neurology, New York University Langone Health, New York, NY, USA.
Background:
People living with multiple sclerosis (MS) experience a high symptom burden that interferes with daily functioning. Virtual reality (VR) is an emerging technology with a range of potential therapeutic applications that may include ameliorating the experience of some common MS symptoms.
Objective:
We tested the feasibility and tolerability of a VR intervention and its preliminary effects on affect.
Methods:
Participants with MS were recruited to complete a pilot study of eight sessions of VR over four weeks.
Results:
A total of n = 16 participants with MS completed the study (age range: 28-63). Feasibility goals were met with 100% of the sample completing at least n = 4/8 of their intervention sessions, with a total of 119/128 (93%) completed sessions. Two of the n = 16 participants experienced brief adverse events (balance, vertigo) but these resolved with headset removal and were not otherwise treatment limiting. There was a preliminary indication of overall improved affect from baseline to intervention end, with significantly improved positive affect (t(15) = -3.19, p = 0.006) and decreased negative affect (t(15) = 2.25, p = 0.040).
Conclusion:
VR interventions are feasible, safe, and tolerable for individuals living with MS and may improve affect.
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