Abnormal reaching behaviour in virtual environments: preliminary observations

In this paper we present the preliminary findings of 3 patterns of abnormal movement observed with some individuals during VR reaching tasks in a shoulder rehabilitation application. These motions are consistent with models of rigid system behavior and appear similar to behaviours indicated in the VR literature. Such motion strategies may be in response to diminished visual perception cues in the VE and are typically inefficient in their recruitment and use of appropriate musculature and suggest that some individuals may require instruction or a much longer period of acclimatization to avoid potentially undermining treatment outcomes.