Clinical implementation of virtual reality in neurorehabilitation: a scoping review of barriers, facilitators, and motivational factors.

Virtual reality is increasingly used in neurorehabilitation because it provides interactive therapeutic experiences that can enhance patient engagement and support rehabilitation goals. Despite growing evidence supporting its potential benefits, the extent of its integration into routine clinical practice remains unclear. This scoping review aimed to examine the current clinical use of virtual reality in neurorehabilitation and identify barriers, facilitators, and motivational factors influencing its implementation.‏ Searches of seven electronic databases [PubMed, MEDLINE, Embase, Scopus, IEEE Xplore, the Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro), and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL)] were conducted to identify relevant studies published between 2010 and 2025. Eligible studies were screened according to predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria, and data were extracted and synthesised descriptively. Eleven studies met the inclusion criteria. Clinical use of virtual reality varied considerably across settings, with only a limited proportion of therapists reporting regular use. Stroke rehabilitation was the most common area of application. Increased patient engagement and positive patient feedback were identified as motivational factors, while improved infrastructure and therapist training were reported facilitators of implementation. Common barriers included limited technical support, insufficient time, inadequate training, and resistance to change. These findings indicate that although interest in virtual reality for neurorehabilitation is increasing, its adoption in clinical practice remains inconsistent and is influenced by organisational, technical, and human factors. Addressing these barriers may facilitate wider implementation and support the integration of virtual reality into routine neurorehabilitation services.