Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 13, 2026
Virtual Reality Experiments with Physiological Measures
Published on: August 29, 2018
Cybersickness. A systematic literature review of adverse effects related to virtual reality
L Simón-Vicente1, S Rodríguez-Cano2, V Delgado-Benito2
1Health Science Department, University of Burgos, Burgos, Spain.
Background:
Virtual Reality (VR) uses computer technology to create a simulated environment. VR is a growing technology with promising extensive applications in different areas such as Medicine, entertainment, sports, gaming, and simulation. However, information about VR side effects is still limited. We aimed to identify the most frequent physical side effects caused by VR therapeutic applications.
Methodology:
All available full-text articles evaluating VR as a therapeutic intervention and side effects using the Simulator Sickness Questionnaire (SSQ) between 2016 and 2021 were consulted across 4 electronic (Entrez Pubmed, Scopus, Science Direct, and Wiley databases). The methodological quality was assessed using the PEDro scale.
Results:
Ten out of 55 reviewed articles (18%) met inclusion/exclusion criteria, including a sample of 416 patients, mean age of 24.54 (15-52.6)years old. According to the PEDro scale, two articles (20%) were considered good or excellent. Side effects were reported more frequently with head-mounted displays compared to desktop systems, especially disorientation, followed by nausea and oculomotor disturbances.
Conclusions:
Although VR might have positive effects as a therapeutic tool, VR can also cause side events. As in any other therapeutic intervention, it is important to understand the effectiveness and safety before planning a VR intervention using a well-designed scientific methodology.
