The Effect of Using Virtual Reality Glasses in the Rehabilitation of Lateral Ankle Ligament Tears among Female Artistic Gymnastics Athletes

Abstract

The study aims to determine the extent to which the use of virtual reality goggles combined with rehabilitation exercises contributes to restoring the efficiency of the ankle joint after a partial tear of the lateral ligament, thereby helping athletes return to their sports activity. The researchers adopted the experimental method, as it fits the nature of the study, using a single group subjected to pre- and post-tests.

The research sample consisted of four female athletes suffering from partial tears of the lateral ligament. They were deliberately selected, and each athlete underwent the rehabilitation program individually according to the timing of her injury and the diagnosis provided by the treating physician, due to the unavailability of all cases at the same time. The experimental group used a rehabilitation program supported by virtual reality (VR) goggles.

The researchers concluded that there were clear positive effects of using virtual reality goggles along with the prescribed rehabilitation exercises in rehabilitating partial tears of the lateral ankle ligament among artistic gymnastics athletes. They recommended adopting this rehabilitative approach due to its effective role in improving joint condition and accelerating the athletes’ return to their sports activity.