Young male construction workers experiencing upper limb injuries are finding improved rehabilitation outcomes thanks to innovative standalone virtual reality (VR) headsets, according to a recent study. This advancement in human-computer interfaces could revolutionize occupational therapy practices.
Methodology and Participant Engagement
The study involved 60 male participants aged between 20 and 30, all suffering from upper limb dysfunctions due to work-related injuries. Recruited from two rehabilitation centers, these individuals engaged in five different VR-based rehabilitation games. Each session lasted 30 minutes and utilized either a tethered VR headset connected to a PC, a standalone VR headset, or a conventional TV setup to present the game interfaces.
Key Findings and Performance Metrics
Research results indicate that the type of display interface significantly impacts technology acceptance, usability, user experience, spatial presence, and the level of perceived stress during therapy sessions. Standalone VR headsets outperformed both tethered headsets and TVs, showing notable improvements in participants’ intent to use the technology, overall performance, and perceived usefulness. Specifically, standalone HMDs increased intent to use by 52%, overall performance by 41%, and perceived usefulness by 20% compared to TVs.
- Enhanced user engagement with standalone VR headsets.
- Greater therapy adherence linked to higher usability scores.
- Standalone HMDs reduce perceived stress during rehabilitation.
Physiotherapists evaluating the system reported an average usability score of 74.5, reinforcing the practical effectiveness of standalone VR interfaces in clinical settings. This consensus highlights the potential for broader adoption of VR technology in occupational rehabilitation programs.
The study’s comprehensive analysis across multiple dimensions of user interaction provides valuable insights into the benefits of standalone VR systems. These findings align with existing research while offering new perspectives on interface comparisons.
Future investigations should focus on the long-term use of VR interfaces and explore factors that further influence therapy effectiveness and the restoration of upper limb functionality. Such research will be crucial in optimizing rehabilitation strategies and maximizing patient outcomes.
Adopting standalone VR headsets in rehabilitation centers can lead to more engaging and effective therapy sessions for individuals with occupational injuries. As technology continues to advance, integrating intuitive and user-friendly interfaces will be essential in enhancing the overall quality and success of rehabilitation programs.
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