Virtual reality in multiple sclerosis - A systematic review

- VR could be an effective method of MS rehabilitation in cognitive and motor deficits.
- VR represents a motivational alternative in the MS rehabilitation process.
- VR combined with other technologies are also effective in MS rehabilitation.
- VR associated factors must be considered in MS rehabilitation planning.

IntroductionMultiple sclerosis (MS) is an inflammatory disease in which the insulating cover of nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord are damaged. The methods used for motor rehabilitation of patients with neurological problems require the performance of several rehabilitation exercises. Recently, studies related to the use of video game consoles have proliferated in the field of motor rehabilitation. Virtual reality (VR) has been proposed as a potentially useful tool for motoring assessment and rehabilitation.ObjectiveThe purpose of this study was to investigate the results shown in previous studies on “Multiple Sclerosis” and “Virtual Reality”.MethodA bibliographic review was performed without time limitations. The research was carried out using PubMed and BVS databases. Considering keywords, we included articles that showed the terms “Multiple Sclerosis” and “Virtual Reality”. The review was according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelinesResultsThe initial search yielded 41 articles. After the duplicates were removed, two authors independently evaluated the title and abstract of each of the articles with the study inclusion criteria. From these, 31 articles were excluded based on the title and abstract. Finally, 10 articles were isolated that met the inclusion criteria.ConclusionVR represents a motivational and effective alternative to traditional motor rehabilitation for MS patients. The results showed that VR programs could be an effective method of patients with MS rehabilitation in multiple cognitive and / or motor deficits. Additional research is needed to support the rehabilitation protocols with VR and increase the effects of treatment.