Effect of Immersive Virtual Reality-Based Dual-Task Training on Cognitive Function and Functional Mobility in Ambulatory Children with Pediatric Neurological Disorders
Abstract
Immersive virtual reality (IVR) is increasingly being explored in pediatric neurorehabilitation because it provides an interactive and controllable environment in which motor and cognitive demands can be manipulated simultaneously. Children with pediatric neurological disorders may experience limitations in executive functions, attention, visuospatial processing, postural control, gait and functional mobility. Conventional rehabilitation often trains these domains separately, whereas everyday activities require children to walk, balance, navigate obstacles and make decisions while attending to competing cognitive demands. Dual-task training (DTT) therefore offers a clinically relevant approach to reducing cognitive-motor interference. This literature review examines the rationale for combining IVR with DTT in ambulatory children with pediatric neurological disorders, with particular emphasis on cerebral palsy. A structured narrative search of PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, Web of Science, PEDro and Google Scholar was considered for peer-reviewed literature addressing pediatric neurological rehabilitation, virtual reality, immersive virtual reality, dual-task performance, executive function, gait, balance and functional mobility. Current evidence indicates that VR can improve balance, gross motor function and gait-related outcomes in children with cerebral palsy, while dual-task studies demonstrate that concurrent cognitive demands can reduce gait and postural performance. Recent evidence also suggests that DTT may improve balance, gross motor function and functional mobility. However, direct evidence specifically evaluating IVR-based DTT on both cognitive function and functional mobility remains limited. Future adequately powered trials should use standardized cognitive and mobility outcomes, individualized task progression and longer follow-up.