VR Games as a Complementary Tool for Upper Limb Rehabilitation: A Biomechanical and Usability Analysis

Abstract

This study presents an exploratory analysis of the effectiveness and applicability of a virtual reality (VR) exercise system as a complementary tool for shoulder physiotherapy rehabilitation, aiming to evaluate its usability and potential integration into clinical protocols. The investigation involves four healthy participants performing a 4-minute "easy" level protocol on the XRWorkout platform, using an IMU-based motion capture suit for detailed kinematic analysis. A biomechanical evaluation was conducted by comparing participants’ joint angles with established theoretical reference ranges. Results showed high adherence to prescribed motor trajectories, with Time Out of Range (TOR) consistently below 0.3%, indicating that movements remained predominantly within safe therapeutic boundaries. While kinematic profiles were regular, recorded range of motion was generally below theoretical maximums and inter-shoulder asymmetry was noted. It is concluded that the system demonstrates significant potential as a complementary and engagement-enhancing tool for conventional shoulder physiotherapy, providing gamified, quantifiable exercises during stages of functional recovery.

Keywords: Upper Limb Physiotherapy, Virtual Reality, Biomechanics, Usability, Games

DOI: 10.54941/ahfe1007473