Single exposure to optokinetic stimulation through virtual reality decreases reliance on visual inputs for posture control.

Abstract

[Purpose] The potential of using optokinetic stimulation (OKS) in conjunction with virtual reality (VR) for balance training merits further investigation. We examined the effects of a single exposure to OKS through VR on the visual dependence of postural sway and control among healthy adults. [Participants and Methods] A two-minute virtual reality (OKS) task was performed by 30 healthy adults without balance impairment. The center of gravity was measured before and after completing the task in the standing position with the eyes open and closed to ascertain the Romberg ratio, which is a measure of visual dependence. [Results] The Romberg ratio of the VR + OKS group significantly decreased from before to after task completion. [Conclusion] The findings indicate that OKS applied with VR enhances visual dependence. These findings facilitate the future use of VR in postural control rehabilitation.