Benefits of virtual reality rehabilitation on neurodegenerative diseases: a systematic review

Abstract

Parkinson’s disease, cognitive impairment, and multiple sclerosis are neurodegenerative conditions contributing to a huge health burden globally. Virtual reality rehabilitation has emerged as a promising intervention, but its comparative effectiveness across different types of neurodegenerative conditions must be further elucidated. Relevant studies were retrieved from the PubMed database, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science Core Collection database. Randomized controlled trials, meta-analyses, and systematic reviews investigating virtual reality interventions for neurodegenerative diseases were incorporated and evaluated. Following a thorough, methodical, and systematic screening process, 99 high-quality studies were ultimately incorporated. The findings corroborate the efficacy of immersive, semi-immersive, and non-immersive virtual reality interventions in cognitive and motor rehabilitation for patients with neurodegenerative diseases. Virtual reality rehabilitation shows great potential in improving motor function, cognitive function, and quality of life in patients with neurodegenerative diseases. Future research should focus on standardizing protocols and exploring the underlying neurobiological mechanisms to optimize its clinical use.