XR Therapy: A Breakthrough for Rehabilitation Clinics
The use of virtual reality (VR) in therapy has been a topic of interest for many years. However, with the introduction of Neuro Rehab VR’s XR Therapy System, its potential for treating patients with physical disabilities and cognitive impairments has become even more promising. In a recent meeting with rehabilitation clinic professionals, the implementation of XR therapy systems was discussed, and the results have been overwhelmingly positive.
Megan, a therapist, shared her observation that using VR in therapy has increased the number of repetitions patients can do in a session. Unlike traditional exercise, where a therapist instructs a patient to move their hand or leg, using VR therapy creates an immersive environment that allows patients to perform movements they would not have otherwise been able to do. This approach has been a significant breakthrough in terms of patient engagement and progress, as it provides a more interactive and engaging experience for patients. The immersive aspect of the therapy allows patients to feel as though they are in a real-life environment, which motivates them to achieve their therapy goals.
Roni, another therapist in the session, emphasized that the VR therapy system has enabled patients to increase their reach, allowing them to push past their self-limits. The use of VR technology has provided patients with an opportunity to see how far they can lean or lift their arm without losing balance, which can be hard to do in a traditional therapy setting. This has been particularly helpful for patients who have been in therapy for a long time and may find it difficult to engage or push themselves. With VR therapy, patients can gradually increase their movements and push past their limitations in a safe and controlled environment.
During the meeting, the therapists were asked about the return on investment (ROI) for the clinic. Roni stated that the clinic did not have an immediate monetary ROI as they do not operate within a payment system. However, the clinic did receive positive feedback from Paralyzed Veterans of America (PVA) during a site visit. The PVA commended the clinic for obtaining a virtual reality system; this feedback has been helpful from an administrative standpoint. The clinic’s investment in VR technology has also been beneficial in patient satisfaction. Megan added that patients were excited to come to therapy to use the VR system, which has been a positive indication of the system's effectiveness.
With continued advancements in technology, the potential for VR therapy in rehabilitation clinics is immense, and it could pave the way for more innovative and effective treatment options for patients with physical disabilities and cognitive impairments.
