The Application of Virtual Reality in Shoulder Surgery Rehabilitation

Abstract

To achieve a positive functional prognosis in orthopedic surgery, particularly in shoulder surgeries, effective rehabilitation is essential. Recently, there has been growing interest in the use of virtual reality (VR) in the field of orthopedics, particularly for preoperative education and training, as well as clinical and home-based rehabilitation. This report describes the process of developing an application utilizing Meta Quest 2 VR technology (Meta, CA, USA) for rehabilitation after shoulder surgery. This application assists patients in performing postoperative exercises at home by wearing VR equipment tailored to their postoperative weeks. The advantages of VR rehabilitation lie in overcoming the limitations of traditional rehabilitation methods and providing patients with a better rehabilitation experience. Moreover, automating the rehabilitation process and reducing patients' visits to clinics can lead to cost savings. This report raises expectations for the potential and scalability of VR utilization, extending beyond orthopedics to other fields. In addition, it anticipates that with better feedback and motivation, the rehabilitation effects for patients can be further enhanced.

Keywords: mixed reality; oculus quest 2; rehabilitation; shoulder; virtual reality.

Figure 1. The avatar performing rehabilitation movements. (A) Front view and (B) rear view.

Figure 2. Captured screenshots of rehabilitation exercises: Postoperative exercises (A, B), range of motion (ROM) exercises (C, D), and strengthening exercises (E, F).