From Novelty to Clinical Practice: Exploring VR Exergames with Physical Therapists

The COVID-19 pandemic, the rise of telehealth and virtual medicine, and the increased accessibility of commercial VR headsets have created opportunities to revitalize the physical therapy field and introduce more innovative tools to complement traditional practice. Researchers are actively exploring the intersection of VR, exergames, and gamified exercise to create new products that can improve both provider efficiency and patient care. This study builds on that momentum by delving into the perspectives of practitioners. We interviewed eight physical therapists after letting them experience a state-of-the-art VR exercise product (i.e., Supernatural VR ). Participants loved the game and were most optimistic about the mental benefits of using VR exergames alongside traditional PT, but cautioned the lack of feedback and expert guidance that could lead to misuse and further injury. Regarding the future integration of VR and PT, participants were cautiously optimistic and offered design feedback and recommendations, with warnings regarding the potential barriers to innovating clinical practice.