Augmented and Mixed Reality Interventions in People with Multiple Sclerosis: A Systematic Review

Area of Science:

• Neurorehabilitation
• Extended Reality Technologies
• Multiple Sclerosis (MS)

Background:

• Extended reality (XR) offers engaging, task-specific, and multisensory therapeutic experiences for individuals with multiple sclerosis (MS).
• Mixed Reality (MR) and Augmented Reality (AR) are emerging XR technologies with potential applications in MS neurorehabilitation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review the application of MR and AR technologies in neurorehabilitation for individuals with MS.
• To investigate the impact of MR/AR interventions on motor and cognitive functions in the MS population.

Main Methods:

• A systematic review was conducted across seven databases, identifying seven eligible studies.
• Interventions targeted motor and cognitive functions, utilizing technologies from head-mounted displays to home-based AR platforms.
• Outcome measures were mapped to the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) framework.

Main Results:

• Short-term improvements were observed in gait parameters, grip strength, and motor coordination.
• Enhanced user engagement and usability were reported with MR and AR interventions.
• Methodological quality was moderate, with limitations in sample size and protocol heterogeneity impacting generalizability.

Conclusions:

• MR and AR show potential as effective adjuncts to conventional and virtual reality (VR)-based rehabilitation for MS.
• These technologies are particularly suited for personalized, task-oriented training in MS populations.
• Further research is necessary to validate long-term efficacy, optimize cognitive load, and standardize intervention protocols.