Feasibility of gamified visual desensitisation for visually-induced dizziness

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Rehabilitation Medicine
• Human-Computer Interaction

Background:

• Visually-induced dizziness, or visual vertigo, is a primary symptom of Persistent Perceptual Postural Dizziness (PPPD).
• This condition is challenging to treat, with limited novel therapeutic options and ongoing research.
• Visual vertigo also affects individuals with other conditions and the general population.

Purpose of the Study:

• To adapt visual desensitization techniques into an online game for better control over visual stimuli.
• To assess the feasibility of a gamified visual desensitization intervention for visual vertigo.
• To evaluate usage, adherence, rehabilitation potential, usability, enjoyment, and the relationship between daily symptoms and playtime.

Main Methods:

• A mixed-methods feasibility trial comparing an online game with (intervention) and without (control) a visual desensitization component.
• Participants engaged in the game for 5-10 minutes, twice daily, for six weeks.
• Data collected included usage statistics, adherence rates, usability surveys, and qualitative feedback.

Main Results:

• A 45% dropout rate was observed, with varied adherence within the intervention group.
• Decreased visual vertigo symptoms, anxiety, and depression correlated with increased playtime in the intervention group.
• The system demonstrated high usability, and qualitative feedback supported the gamified approach.

Conclusions:

• Gamified visual desensitization is an accessible and acceptable method for managing visual vertigo.
• Adherence challenges need to be addressed for this approach to be fully integrated into rehabilitation.
• Further research and trials are warranted to confirm its efficacy in treating visually-induced dizziness and associated anxiety.