Advancing Digital Access to Physical Therapy via Virtual and Extended Reality Technology: Prototype Development and Usability Evaluation.

BACKGROUND

The United States faces significant challenges in physical therapy (PT) access due to high demand, a shortage of professionals, and patient-related obstacles, which can adversely affect recovery and function. Limited access to PT may lead to increased dependence on medications for pain management, highlighting the need for nonpharmacologic options to reduce opioid overprescribing. Low back pain, a leading cause of disability and high medical costs, is a common reason for requiring PT following surgery. Studies have shown that virtual reality (VR)-guided movements can improve motor function and reduce pain intensity.

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study was to design, develop, and evaluate a VR-based prototype for individualized postoperative PT for patients recovering from back surgery to investigate its potential to improve convenience, access, and health outcomes in future research.

METHODS

Study methods involved participatory design and development of VR software for PT back exercises using the design box method, an inductive, problem-oriented collaborative design approach. A usability evaluation of the resulting prototype was conducted with patients recovering from back surgery using a think-aloud protocol and usability survey.

RESULTS

Six participants evaluated the VR prototype and reported usability challenges that included mismatched VR boundaries, limited familiarity with VR, and difficulties with the headset and hand controls. The System Usability Scale resulted in a total usability score of 58.3 out of 100, indicating a below-average score (68 being average).

CONCLUSIONS

In the design and evaluation of a VR-based PT prototype, we found that while participants were enthusiastic, they faced usability challenges due to insufficient instructions and difficulties operating the VR device, highlighting the need for effective onboarding and extensive prototype testing to improve accessibility and engagement in health care. Future evaluations will investigate disparities among different groups to ensure accessibility and effectiveness for all users.