Emily Daviss PT, DPT 5/14/25 Emily Daviss PT, DPT 5/14/25

Combating Depression with Virtual Reality: Emerging Therapies and Outcomes

Mental health challenges are often an invisible but profound consequence of injury, illness, and trauma. As a physical therapist, I see firsthand how patients grappling with new limitations often experience significant emotional distress. The loss of independence, changes in lifestyle, and disruption of personal identity can contribute to feelings of depression. Supporting patients' mental health is not only compassionate care; it is essential to achieving the best possible physical recovery outcomes. Virtual reality (VR) is emerging as a powerful tool in mental health support, offering new, evidence-based pathways for healing and hope.

Emily Daviss PT, DPT 3/19/25 Emily Daviss PT, DPT 3/19/25

The Future of Physical Therapy: How Virtual Reality and Gamification Are Revolutionizing Rehabilitation

A recent systematic review by Calderone et al. (2025) found that VR and gamification significantly enhance rehabilitation outcomes for individuals with neuromuscular diseases (NMDs) by improving motivation, engagement, and adherence to therapy. As more clinicians recognize the importance of patient engagement, the use of immersive technologies in therapy is growing, transforming how rehabilitation is delivered.

Emily Daviss PT, DPT 3/12/25 Emily Daviss PT, DPT 3/12/25

Virtual Reality in TBI Rehabilitation: A Neuro Rehab PT’s Perspective

March is Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about brain injuries and advancing research and treatment approaches that help patients recover. As a neuro rehab physical therapist, I’ve worked closely with TBI patients and have seen firsthand the challenges they face in regaining independence. Rehabilitation is never one-dimensional—it requires an integrated approach that addresses motor recovery, cognitive function, and balance control all at once.

Emily Daviss PT, DPT 2/26/25 Emily Daviss PT, DPT 2/26/25

Virtual Reality in Pain Management: A Breakthrough for Musculoskeletal Rehabilitation

In recent years, Virtual Reality (VR) has emerged as an innovative tool in healthcare, particularly in pain management for musculoskeletal disorders. As a healthcare professional, I have witnessed firsthand how VR can significantly reduce pain levels, enhance rehabilitation participation, and even eliminate the need for pain medication in some cases. Recent research supports these observations, highlighting VR’s effectiveness as a non-invasive, drug-free alternative to traditional pain relief methods.