Impact of artificial intelligence and virtual reality on the rehabilitation of general patients and patients undergoing surgical treatment

Physical rehabilitation aims to restore various bodily functions through professional monitoring and directed therapies, such as physical and occupational therapies. These rehabilitation methods can be time-consuming, costly, and even not accessible for patients. Effective rehabilitation is crucial for improving a patient’s quality of life and treatment outcome. Studies referenced in this review prove early and effective rehabilitation in reducing hospital stays and treatment costs. Recent advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) and virtual reality (VR) are enhancing rehabilitation practices. VR, using augmented reality, helps stimulate sensory experiences and is increasingly applied in kinematics, neurorehabilitation, and motor rehabilitation. Studies have demonstrated that AI and VR can improve patient outcomes by facilitating better analysis and faster recovery compared to traditional methods. A review of current literature between 2015 and 2025 highlights the growing use of AI/VR in rehabilitation. Notable findings include VR's effectiveness in orthopedics and stroke recovery, with improvements in functional scores and reduced patient costs. However, limitations include the need for larger studies and more comprehensive testing to fully validate these technologies. Overall, AI and VR show promise for revolutionizing rehabilitation, offering potential benefits like shorter recovery times and cost savings.