Adaptive rehabilitation training for vestibular semicircular canal injury based on virtual reality technology

To evaluate the clinical efficacy of an adaptive vestibular rehabilitation training system based on Virtual Reality (VR) technology for patients with semicircular canal injury.

A randomized controlled trial was conducted with 60 patients diagnosed with peripheral vestibular vertigo. Participants were randomly assigned to either an Intervention Group (n=30), which received VR-based adaptive vestibular rehabilitation using the PICO 4 Pro system, or a Control Group (n=30), which underwent traditional vestibular rehabilitation. Both groups received training for four weeks. The primary outcome measure was the Dizziness Handicap Inventory (DHI). Secondary outcomes included balance performance assessed via the Activities-specific Balance Confidence (ABC) Scale and static posturography (Maximum Sway Path Length and Sway Area). Vestibular function was objectively evaluated using the Video Head Impulse Test (vHIT) and the Bithermal Caloric Test. Psychological status was assessed using the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS).

Post-intervention analysis revealed that the Intervention Group achieved significantly lower DHI scores compared to the Control Group. In terms of balance, the Intervention Group demonstrated significantly higher ABC Scale scores and reduced Maximum Sway Path Length and Sway Area compared to controls. Furthermore, the Intervention Group showed a significantly lower rate of abnormal findings in both vHIT and Bithermal Caloric Tests, indicating improved physiological function. Improvements in psychological well-being were also observed, with the Intervention Group exhibiting significantly lower HADS scores.

VR-based adaptive vestibular rehabilitation is effective in alleviating vertigo symptoms, enhancing balance function, and improving psychological well-being. The intervention also promotes the physiological recovery of semicircular canal function, demonstrating superior clinical efficacy compared to traditional rehabilitation methods.