Use of Virtual Environments in Motor Learning and Rehabilitation

Abstract

The purpose of this chapter is to describe how virtual environments (VEs) can be utilized to facilitate motor learning in normal subjects and to enhance the rehabilitation of disabled subjects.The chapter begins with a review of relevant literature on the use of VEs for training sensorimotor tasks in normal populations in two main areas, spatial-motor and navigation learning studies. Next, clinical literature on the potential and actual applications of VEs to the field of rehabilitation is reviewed. Advantages and disadvantages for the use of VEs, discovered through these studies, are identified and discussed.