Immersive virtual reality in traumatic brain injury rehabilitation: A literature review

BACKGROUND: Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a common cause of morbidity and mortality in the United States with its sequelae often affecting individuals long after the initial injury. Innovations in virtual reality (VR) technology may offer potential therapy options in the recovery from such injuries. However, there is currently no consensus regarding the efficacy of VR in the setting of TBI rehabilitation. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this review is to evaluate and summarize the current literature regarding immersive VR in the rehabilitation of those with TBI. METHODS: A comprehensive literature search was conducted utilizing PubMed, Google Scholar, and the Cochrane Review using the search terms virtual reality, traumatic brain injury, brain injury, and immersive. RESULTS: A total of 11 studies were evaluated. These were primarily of low-level evidence, with the exception of two randomized, controlled trials. 10 of 11 studies demonstrated improvement with VR therapy. VR was most frequently used to address gait or cognitive deficits. CONCLUSIONS: While the current literature generally offers support for the use of VR in TBI recovery, there is a paucity of strong evidence to support its widespread use. The increasing availability of immersive VR technology offers the potential for engaging therapy in TBI rehabilitation, but its utility remains uncertain given the limited studies available at this time.