Researchers in Australia are testing whether a virtual reality (VR) table tennis game can make balance rehabilitation exercises more enjoyable and effective.
The study explores how VR headsets could help turn repetitive balance routines into more engaging experiences—potentially improving adherence to rehabilitation programmes.
The research focused on a VR table tennis game played while participants stood on a stationary treadmill equipped with force plates—devices that measure forces exerted by the feet—to assess balance performance.
These exercises are commonly used to help people regain or improve their ability to stand and move steadily, especially after injuries, strokes or age-related decline.
To deliberately challenge participants’ balance, the virtual racket in the game was gradually offset from the position of the player’s actual hand, requiring constant adjustment to hit the virtual ball.
PhD student Achintha Abayasiri, from the University of Queensland’s School of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, led the study.
The researcher said: “VR games may offer several advantages compared to traditional exercises for balance rehabilitation.
“They’re more engaging and have the potential to complement the repetitive exercises traditionally prescribed by physical therapists, so people are less likely to drop out and stop doing them.
“They also reduce the workload for therapists because all you need is the headset and the game, saving both time and money.”
The study included both younger people familiar with VR and older adults aged 65 to 84.
Participants in both groups found the game-based activities effective and enjoyable, with low rates of motion sickness.
Abayasiri emphasised the importance of tailoring VR games to suit individual needs and abilities.
The research will next explore VR-based rehabilitation interventions for treadmill walking.
Abayasiri said: “The VR game is acting like a distraction to the actual exercise, with the potential to challenge and rehabilitate the balance of a range of populations, including people who have experienced a stroke or have other conditions affecting their balance.”
Dr Nilufar (Nell) Baghaei, senior lecturer at the UQ School of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, said: “This project shows the potential of VR to reduce the burden on physical therapists and make balance exercises more engaging, enjoyable and effective for participants.”
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