1st Edition

Immersive Virtual Rehabilitation A Clinician's Guide

Edited By Nancy A. Baker, Joanne M. Baird, Megan E. Kenney Copyright 2026
236 Pages 37 B/W Illustrations
by Routledge

236 Pages 37 B/W Illustrations
by Routledge

236 Pages 37 B/W Illustrations
by Routledge

This practical and comprehensive guide for implementing immersive virtual reality (VR) into rehabilitation practice provides an accessible overview of VR technology, alongside a how-to guide for its application across different patient populations and healthcare settings. Although research on VR in rehabilitation demonstrates potential, there is a lack of awareness, as well as confidence, in... Read more

Introduction:    Welcome to Your Clinical Guide to Virtual Rehabilitation

Joanne M. Baird

 

Section 1: Virtual Reality 101

 

1                      What is Virtual Rehabilitation?

Nancy A. Baker

 

2                      Virtual Reality Foundations

Nancy A. Baker

 

3                      Benefits of Virtual Reality Rehabilitation

Joanne M. Baird, Megan E. Kenney, and Nancy A. Baker

4                      Virtual Reality Hardware

Aubrey Simonson

5                      Virtual Reality Experiences

Nancy A. Baker

 

Section 2: Virtual Rehabilitation

 

6                      Developing a Plan of Care in Virtual Rehabilitation

Joanne M. Baird, Megan E. Kenney, and Nancy A. Baker

 

7                      Delivering Virtual Rehabilitation

Nancy A. Baker, Megan E. Kenney, Kathrine Rodenkirch, and Joanne M. Baird

 

8                      Adopting Virtual Rehabilitation

Nancy A. Baker

 

Appendices

Appendix A                Troubleshooting

Appendix B                 VR Cheat Sheet

Appendix C                 Virtual Reality Activity Analysis (VRAA)

Appendix D                Documentation Example

Biography

Nancy A. Baker, Tufts University, USA

Joanne M. Baird, University of Pittsburgh, USA

Megan E. Kenney, VA Pittsburgh Health System, USA

“An essential resource for rehabilitation professionals. The authors deliver a thorough yet accessible guide that bridges the gap between foundational concepts and functional clinical application. The emphasis on evidence-based practice, combined with practical guidance on implementation, makes this book indispensable for clinicians who are ready to harness the therapeutic potential of virtual reality to enhance patient outcomes and expand their approach to rehabilitation care.”
Walter J. Greenleaf, Stanford University, USA

“This comprehensive guide bridges theory and practice in virtual rehabilitation. Each chapter's structure—complete with abstracts, learning objectives, and case studies—makes complex concepts accessible for clinicians at any level. From foundational principles to practical implementation strategies, this book provides the evidence-based framework needed to confidently integrate immersive technologies into clinical practice. An important resource for rehabilitation professionals navigating healthcare's digital transformation.”
Karen Jacobs, Associate Dean of Digital Learning & Innovation, Boston University, USA

“Immersive VR is reshaping the therapeutic landscape. This excellent guide equips rehabilitation professionals with the knowledge and confidence to use this powerful technology to improve patient care. A valuable resource for the next generation of clinicians.”
Brennan Spiegel, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Virtual Medicine Program, USA