Application of virtual reality to the rehabilitation field to aid amputee rehabilitation: Findings from a systematic review

Purpose. To determine the scope and use of virtual reality (VR) applications in the gait rehabilitation field and to review and characterise VR approaches for application in amputee rehabilitation. Method. A state-of-the-art research analysis was completed to review different approaches of VR to the gait rehabilitation field. Systematic research using Medline, EBSCOhost and Science Direct (ISI Web of Knowledge) was conducted to analyse various VR rehabilitation methods, and we developed a framework to characterise different research findings. Results. Framework for a research approach in the field of VR and rehabilitation was developed based on the literature review. On the basis of outcomes from gait rehabilitation using VR, trials for amputee rehabilitation using VR is warranted and an outline of this potential VR rehabilitation area was identified. Conclusions. Evidence supports the investigation of VR as applied to amputee rehabilitation based on general gait rehabilitation results. Research should be expanded to better understand the role and use of technology in community-based rehabilitation to enhance the quality of life of individuals.