User experience and cybersickness in neuromuscular patients using recreational immersive virtual reality.

PURPOSE: To explore the user experience of neuromuscular patients engaging with virtual reality.

MATERIALS AND

METHODS

In this observational study, patients aged 16 and older, with a clinical and/or genetic diagnosis of neuromuscular disease, underwent a recreational VR experience. The virtual reality activity consisted of using Tripp® application during hospitalisation using Oculus Quest 2®. Subsequently, they completed a set of questionnaires assessing technology acceptance, cybersickness, and flow state, defined as the level of engagement during an activity.

RESULTS

Fifty-nine patients reported low levels of cybersickness and high levels of flow state. A significant positive correlation was found between user experience and flow state, while no significant relationship was observed between technology acceptance and cybersickness.

DISCUSSION: Overall, this research highlights the feasibility of virtual reality as an acceptable tool in the neuromuscular population providing insights into the technology's application in clinical settings.