“I Was Focused on the Game and Not on My Shoulder.” A Case Report on the Use of Virtual Reality in the Rehabilitation of an Unstable Shoulder

Abstract

BACKGROUND: People living with shoulder instability commonly experience pain and a substantial decrease in function. Equivocal evidence relating to different interventions has resulted in inconsistent rehabilitation suggestions. CASE PRESENTATION: A young athlete with a history of shoulder pain and the constant perception of shoulder instability underwent rehabilitation using immersive virtual reality (VR). Prior to this intervention, the athlete reported unsuccessful nonsurgical treatment for her shoulder. She was living with pain and movement restriction and had withdrawn from competitive sport. OUTCOME AND FOLLOW-UP: After using a VR device for 3 weeks at home, an increase in shoulder range of movement (abduction from 25°-90°, flexion from 30°-110°, and external rotation from 5°-50°) and a decrease in pain (from 7/10 to 4/10) were achieved. DISCUSSION: Although causality cannot be inferred, this case report highlights the potential of immersive VR in the treatment of young patients with perceived shoulder instability, pain, and decreased function. JOSPT Cases 2023;3(3):158-162. Epub: 20 June 2023. doi:10.2519/josptcases.2023.11363