Virtual Reality Technology for Physical and Cognitive Function Rehabilitation in People With Multiple Sclerosis

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Rehabilitation Medicine
• Medical Technology

Background:

• Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a disabling neurodegenerative disease impacting motor, sensory, and cognitive functions.
• Rehabilitation is crucial for managing MS symptoms and improving quality of life.
• Virtual reality (VR) offers immersive, simulated environments for therapeutic interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review recent evidence on the efficacy of VR training for key clinical symptoms in people with MS (pwMS).
• To highlight VR's potential as a complementary rehabilitative tool for MS.
• To provide health professionals with a foundational understanding of VR in MS rehabilitation.

Main Methods:

• Narrative review of existing literature on VR interventions for pwMS.
• Analysis of studies focusing on VR's impact on motor, sensory, and cognitive functions in MS.
• Synthesis of evidence regarding VR's effectiveness in addressing common MS symptoms.

Main Results:

• VR training has demonstrated effectiveness in improving motor, sensory, and cognitive functions in individuals with MS.
• Simulated environments created by VR are perceived as analogous to the real world, facilitating engagement.
• Evidence suggests VR can be a valuable tool for complementary rehabilitation in MS.

Conclusions:

• Virtual reality presents a promising adjunctive therapy for enhancing rehabilitation outcomes in people with multiple sclerosis.
• Further research is needed to identify specific VR protocols and address gaps in the literature for neurodegenerative diseases.
• VR has the potential to improve ubiquitous symptoms associated with multiple sclerosis, aiding in patient management.