Interactive 3-dimensional virtual reality rehabilitation for patients with chronic imbalance and vestibular dysfunction.

BACKGROUND

Chronic imbalance is common in patients with vestibular dysfunction. Vestibular rehabilitation is effective in improving upright balance control. Vestibular rehabilitation exercises, such as Cawthorne-Cooksey exercises, include simple repetitive movements and have limited feedback and adaptive training protocols. Interactive systems based on virtual reality (VR) technology may improve vestibular rehabilitation.

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study was to examine the effectiveness of an interactive 3-dimensional VR system for vestibular rehabilitation.

METHODS

In 49 subjects with vestibular dysfunction, VR rehabilitation exercises were performed in 6 sessions. Before and after rehabilitation, subjects were evaluated for performance of the training exercises; the center of pressure was measured for 20 seconds and balance indices were determined.

RESULTS

Five training scores (total 6) showed a significant improvement. For balance indices in condition of non-stimulation, all of them (total 5) showed a trend of improvement, in which there was a significant improvement in mean mediolateral. For balance indices in condition of post-stimulation, there was a significant improvement in statokinesigram and maximum mediolateral.

CONCLUSIONS

The VR rehabilitation exercises were effective in improving upright balance control in patients with vestibular dysfunction.