An immersive virtual reality-based intervention to enhance mobility and patient-reported outcomes in patients with proximal humeral fractures: a case report

Abstract Greater tuberosity (GT) fractures of the humerus contribute to 14–20% of all proximal humeral fractures (PHF) and provide considerable challenges because of their proximity to the rotator cuff, which may negatively affect shoulder function if left untreated. A 45-year-old man who had an isolated, non-displaced GT fracture in a motorbike accident is the subject of this case report. The patient received a new virtual reality (VR) intervention and a thorough rehabilitation programme after an initial period of immobility. Through the VR component, the patient was able to participate in immersive exercises designed to improve motivation and movement. Assessments of range of motion and the Constant-Murley Score (CMS), which increased from 16 on day 1 to 33 at the completion of therapy, were used to track progress. Significant gains in shoulder mobility and patient-reported outcomes were observed in the results, indicating that the use of virtual reality could increase the effectiveness of rehabilitation. Further investigation in larger clinical studies is necessary in the context of this example, which supports the potential use of VR as an adjuvant in shoulder rehabilitation following a GT fracture.