The application of immersive technologies to alleviate lower-limb motor symptoms of Parkinson’s Disease: A scoping review and future research

Abstract

The use of immersive technologies in conjunction with conventional rehabilitation methods holds potential for alleviating symptoms of Parkinson’s disease. Recent research has highlighted the positive effects of multisensory stimuli within virtual immersive environments on maintaining motor function, as well as ways to mitigate the risks of and slow down undesired outcomes. However, existing reviews have primarily focused on the specific links between a single immersive technology and a particular set of symptoms. Such a restricted approach has led to a limited understanding of how different technology configurations and experiences can improve motor functions from a holistic perspective. To address this gap, this scoping review provides a comparative description and critical discussion of rehabilitation programmes and their outcomes across extended reality, including virtual reality, augmented reality and mixed reality, covering the full range of symptoms. The review emphasises the lower-limb motor functions and the benefits for individuals with Parkinson’s disease engaging in tasks that simultaneously require motor and cognitive abilities. A set of design considerations and opportunities has been structured based on the review to guide future virtual immersive environments that enhance the overall rehabilitation experience by promoting social interaction while addressing issues of feasibility, safety and the effectiveness of physical exercise.