Virtual Reality Interventions Show Promise in Improving Neuromotor Function in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder

Strategic Insights -

Research has shown that virtual reality-based interventions may have a positive impact on neuromotor function in children with autism spectrum disorder, cerebral palsy, and developmental coordination disorder. A systematic review of 824 studies, focusing on randomized clinical trials, found that 260 children of both sexes showed improvements in neuromotor skills, including manual dexterity, balance, motor coordination, and reaction time. The studies, conducted between 2012 and 2022, demonstrated that virtual reality-based interventions can be an effective tool for improving neuromotor outcomes in children with adverse health conditions.

Key Takeaways:

  • Virtual reality-based interventions showed positive outcomes in improving neuromotor function in children with cerebral palsy, developmental coordination disorder, and autism spectrum disorder.
  • Manual dexterity, balance, motor coordination, and reaction time were among the neuromotor skills that improved as a result of virtual reality-based interventions.
  • The studies included in the review followed the PICOS strategy and adhered to the PRISMA method to ensure the quality and consistency of the data.
  • The research included in the review was conducted by researchers at the Federal University of Pernambuco, led by Dr. Ana Beatriz Januario Silva.
  • The systematic review of 824 studies identified nine studies that met the eligibility criteria, with data from 260 children of both sexes analyzed across three distinct adverse health conditions.

Statistics:

  • 824 studies were identified in the systematic review.
  • 260 children of both sexes were analyzed across three distinct adverse health conditions.
  • The studies reported positive outcomes in 9 out of 9 studies.
  • The neuromotor skills that improved as a result of virtual reality-based interventions included manual dexterity (improved in 2 studies), balance, motor coordination, and reaction time.
  • The studies were conducted between 2012 and 2022.

Sources:

  • NewsRx. Research from Federal University of Pernambuco Provides New Data on Autism (The use of virtual reality technologies in children with adverse health conditions: can it improve neuromotor function? a systematic review of randomized clinical trials). Mental Health Weekly Digest. October 20, 2025; p 835.
  • The use of virtual reality technologies in children with adverse health conditions: can it improve neuromotor function? a systematic review of randomized clinical trials. Frontiers in Virtual Reality, 2025,6.