Investigating Current Notion on Virtual Reality Rehabilitation Approach on Post Operative Lower Extremity Conditions: A Narrative Review

Om Wadhokar; Vanshika  Tandon; Sakshi Yede; Jayantika   Bhardwaj; Seema   Saini; Tushar Palekar

doi:10.18502/jmr.v19i2.18346

Om Wadhokar Department of Musculoskeletal Sciences, Dr. D.Y. Patil College of Physiotherapy, Dr. D.Y. Patil Vidyapeeth, Pimpri, India.
Vanshika Tandon Department of Musculoskeletal Sciences, Dr. D.Y. Patil College of Physiotherapy, Dr. D.Y. Patil Vidyapeeth, Pimpri, India.
Sakshi Yede Department of Musculoskeletal Sciences, Dr. D.Y. Patil College of Physiotherapy, Dr. D.Y. Patil Vidyapeeth, Pimpri, India.
Jayantika Bhardwaj Department of Musculoskeletal Sciences, Dr. D.Y. Patil College of Physiotherapy, Dr. D.Y. Patil Vidyapeeth, Pimpri, India.
Seema Saini Department of Musculoskeletal Sciences, Dr. D.Y. Patil College of Physiotherapy, Dr. D.Y. Patil Vidyapeeth, Pimpri, India.
Tushar Palekar Department of Musculoskeletal Sciences, Dr. D.Y. Patil College of Physiotherapy, Dr. D.Y. Patil Vidyapeeth, Pimpri, India.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.18502/jmr.v19i2.18346

Keywords: Virtual reality; Rehabilitation; Lower limb arthroplasty; Lower limb soft tissue injuries

Abstract

Introduction: Lower extremity surgeries, such as total knee arthroplasty, total hip arthroplasty (THA), and anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction require extensive rehabilitation to restore mobility and function. Traditional rehabilitation faces various challenges, such as patient adherence and access to care. Virtual reality (VR) has emerged as a promising tool to enhance rehabilitation outcomes by offering interactive, engaging environments that improve patient motivation.

Materials and Methods: A narrative review was conducted to evaluate the current literature on VR-based rehabilitation for post-operative lower extremity conditions. Relevant studies from 2019 to 2024 were selected from online databases, such as PubMed, Scopus, and Cochrane, focusing on VR’s application in patients recovering from total knee arthroplasty, THA, ACL reconstruction, and traumatic lower limb amputations.

Results: VR interventions significantly improved proprioception, balance, and patient engagement compared to traditional rehabilitation methods. VR’s interactive nature provided real-time feedback and enhanced patient motivation. However, mixed results were reported regarding VR’s superiority in pain management and overall functional outcomes. VR was shown to complement traditional therapy rather than replace it.

Conclusion: VR-based rehabilitation offers a promising adjunct to traditional methods, improving patient engagement and specific functional outcomes. While VR enhances recovery, further research is needed to establish standardized protocols and determine its long- term efficacy in post-operative rehabilitation.