The Role of Virtual Reality on Parkinson’s Disease Management: A Bibliometric and Content Analysis

Abstract

The management of Parkinson’s disease (PD) has increasingly focused on innovative technologies, particularly virtual reality (VR), which has emerged as a significant tool for addressing neurological disorders. This bibliometric analysis summarizes current research trends and hotspots regarding VR applications in PD management. A comprehensive search of the Science Citation Index Expanded (SCIE) within the Web of Science Core Collection (WoSCC) identified 475 publications from 2000 to 2024. Key findings indicate a substantial increase in publication output, especially after 2013, driven by technological advancements and investments from major IT companies. Prominent research institutions and scholars from Australia, Israel, Italy, and Spain have led this field, exploring various VR applications for PD patients. The focus of VR therapy research has evolved from primarily addressing freezing of gait (FOG) to a broader range of functional impairments, including balance, postural control, upper limb motor, and cognitive function. This study provides valuable insights into the evolving landscape of clinical research on VR in PD management, highlighting global trends and potential areas for future investigation and application of VR therapies.