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The Effects of Virtual Reality-Based Task-Oriented Movement on Upper Extremity Function in Healthy Individuals: A
Tuba Maden1, Halil İbrahim Ergen1, Zarife Pancar2
1Department of Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation, Faculty of Health Sciences, Gaziantep University, 27050 Gaziantep, Turkey.
Medicina (Kaunas, Lithuania)
|April 26, 2025
Summary
Virtual reality (VR) rehabilitation shows promise for upper extremity function, improving manual dexterity and reaction time in healthy individuals. This technology offers a novel approach for enhancing motor skills in rehabilitation programs.
Area of Science:
- Rehabilitation medicine
- Human-computer interaction
- Motor learning
Background:
- Virtual reality (VR) is recognized for its potential in rehabilitation, leveraging motor learning principles.
- However, its specific effects on upper extremity function, especially in console-based applications, require further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the impact of VR-based task-oriented movements on the upper extremity function of healthy individuals.
- To compare the effects of real-world versus virtual environment task-oriented movements.
Main Methods:
- Twenty-six healthy participants engaged in task-oriented movements in both real and virtual settings.
- Interventions included immersive VR experiences and 3D exergames.
- Assessments comprised joint position sense (JPS), reaction time, and gross manual dexterity (Box-and-Block Test).
Main Results:
- Joint position sense (JPS) remained consistent across conditions.
- Gross manual dexterity, measured by the Box-and-Block Test (BBT), improved post-intervention in both environments.
- A significant increase in reaction time was observed exclusively after the VR intervention.
Conclusions:
- VR-based task-oriented training positively impacts reaction time and supports hand function.
- VR systems simulating real-world joint position sense could benefit individuals with motor deficits.
- VR technology presents a valuable tool for enhancing upper extremity function in neurological and orthopedic rehabilitation.
