Combining immersive virtual reality and postural therapy for scoliosis treatment and prevention in children

PurposeThis paper presents an immersive virtual reality solution, combined with tracking devices and biomechanical assessment instruments, directed to the treatment and prevention of scoliosis. The pathology is substantially common, and symptoms tend to get worse leading to complications. However, specific exercises can reduce the progression of severe curves and stimulate symmetry. The technological combination aligned with the interactive process was used to analyze the therapeutic contribution of the method in two isometric corrective postures.MethodsTo validate the proposal, two groups of 11 students, 11 to 13 years of age, performed the proposed therapy in different contexts. The experimental group performed corrective postures used for postural and physical conditioning training with the assistance of an immersive virtual interface. In contrast, the control group performed the same corrective protocol without the assistance of the immersive virtual interface.ResultsWhen comparing results from both groups after 3 sessions, significant differences were discovered for Standing Left Hand Displacement (p < 0.1), Standing Right Hand Displacement (p < 0.1), Standing Tolerated Time (p < 0.1), Seated CoP Displacement (p < 0.1), and Seated Tolerated Time (p < 0.1). After 4 sessions, significant differences between Standing CoP Displacement (p < .1), Standing Tolerated Time (p < .1), Seated CoP Displacement (p < .1), and Seated Tolerated Time (p < .1) were noted. After the experiments, it was found that time tolerance by patients, in isometric exercises for posture correction, can be improved. Considering precision and alignment, standing and seated postures are benefited by the technological combination.ConclusionThe novel approach presented in this paper, using visual and interactive stimulation with specific devices, suggests that the proposed technological combination can be used by therapists to enhance the results of standard protocols for scoliosis treatment and prevention. Different interactive scenarios should be developed in order to minimize any type of decreased motivation.