Counter-posture Training in Virtual Reality: A Novel Approach to Workplace Injury Prevention

This paper introduces a novel Virtual Reality based counterposture training application designed to address the prevalent issue of workplace Repetitive Strain Injuries (RSIs), with a specific focus on the upper body. Traditional methods for RSI prevention through counter posture training often face challenges related to user engagement, personalization, and accessibility. To overcome these limitations, the proposed system leverages the immersive and interactive capabilities of VR technology, utilizing the Meta Quest 2 headsets and Unity 3D game engine. The application features a variety of exercise modules, each targeting different muscle groups and movement patterns to counteract harmful workplace postures. Core design principles emphasize RSI mitigation, active physical interaction, rich sensory feedback, and structured goals to enhance user experience and effectiveness. Potential benefits of this VR approach include increased user engagement and motivation, improved adherence to exercise routines, the ability to offer personalized and adaptive training programs, real-time feedback mechanisms, and long-term cost-effectiveness. While the technical implementation demonstrates feasibility, the paper underscores the need for further precise evaluation through user studies to validate clinical and occupational efficacy. Future research directions involve large-scale user studies, the integration of biofeedback sensors, expansion of exercise content, exploration of tele-rehabilitation models, and longitudinal studies to ascertain long term impact. This VR based counter-posture training holds significant promise as an innovative tool in occupational health, potentially improving worker well-being and reducing injury rates.