Virtual reality rehabilitation improved ankle function and balance in pooled trials
A review found favorable functional, balance and selected strength outcomes in people with ankle instability. Participants were predominantly young men, and study quality was moderate on average.
Based on the published abstract. The full paper may contain additional methods, results and limitations.
The 30-second takeaway
The pooled trials favored virtual reality interventions for ankle function, static and dynamic balance, and selected muscle-strength measures. This suggests potential value in rehabilitation for ankle instability. However, the abstract does not describe comparison programs or follow-up periods, and the participant profile limits how broadly the results can be applied.
Average methodological quality was moderate. Comparator details, outcome timing and adverse-event results are absent from the abstract, so the authors' safety conclusion cannot be independently assessed from the information provided.
What the interventions targeted
The review examined virtual reality approaches that use playful or game-like exercise environments during ankle rehabilitation. Outcomes concerned ankle function, balance and muscle strength; the abstract does not establish fewer future injuries or faster return to sport.
Reading the pooled effects
Function and balance results were expressed as standardized score differences, not percentage improvements. Strength results used mean differences, but their measurement units are missing from the abstract, making the size of those changes difficult to interpret.
The original publication
Virtual reality-based interventions enhance functional status, balance and muscle strength in patients with ankle instability: a systematic review with meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.
García-Sánchez M, Obrero-Gaitán E, López-Ruiz MC et al.
Eur J Phys Rehabil Med · 2025
- PubMed ID
- 40856380
- Record checked
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