VR headset with mobile phones in rehabilitation, advantages and limitations
Mobile VR headsets represent an accessible and flexible solution in rehabilitation, but it is essential to consider their limitations.
In contexts that require advanced monitoring and specific exercises such as rehabilitation, programms designed for professional use offer better performance and results.
Limitations of using VR headset with mobile phones
Power and graphic quality limitations
Mobile VR headsets depend on the graphics and processing power of the smartphone. This can result in lower quality graphics, limiting the immersion and realism of virtual environments, which is key to effective rehabilitation.
Prolonged use of VR applications can overheat the phone, affecting its performance and battery life.
Limitation in tracking and movement control
Unlike advanced VR systems that can capture detailed movements, mobile VR headset often have basic tracking, which restricts accuracy in exercises that require fine control of movements.
Comfort problems and eyestrain
The limited resolution and the closeness of the screen can cause eyestrain and discomfort, especially in long sessions. People with vision problems or light sensitivity may be particularly affected.
VR headsets such as Meta Quest are becoming increasingly comfortable and affordable, designed to prevent eyestrain.
Incompatibility with professional rehabilitation software
Some advanced applications, designed for specific VR systems, are not compatible with mobile devices. Therefore, the use of VR with mobile devices would be limiting access to more effective rehabilitation programmes.
Side effects in some users
Latency or the mismatch between real and virtual movements in mobile VR headsets can cause motion sickness. It should be borne in mind that rehabilitation patients may have sensitivities that aggravate these effects.
VR headset and software for professional use are used to design and present environments that do not cause motion sickness. In addition, safe environments are offered for working with cognitively impaired patients.
Difficulty in storing and analysing data
The ability to record and analyse data generated during sessions is limited on most mobile devices. This affects the assessment of progress and makes it difficult to adjust therapy according to the patient’s progress.
Conclusions on mobile VR headsets
The use of VR Headsets with mobile phones still makes sense for many users due to their affordable cost, portability and ease of use. They are an option for those looking for an introduction to virtual reality without a large upfront investment.
However, for those who require a quality, therapy-specific experience and are willing to invest a little more, VR Headset are the best option.
In the context of rehabilitation, VR headsets with professional software offer significant advantages in terms of accuracy and quality of experience, resulting in better therapeutic outcomes.
