Saudi end-user perception and expectations toward using virtual reality-based physiotherapy systems as an exercise tool for people with knee osteoarthritis

Sabbagh, D., Button, K. ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-1073-9901 and Al-Amri, Mohammad ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-2806-0462 2026. Saudi end-user perception and expectations toward using virtual reality-based physiotherapy systems as an exercise tool for people with knee osteoarthritis. Presented at: 16th International Conference on Disability, Virtual Reality & Associated Technologies, Copenhagen, Denmark, 15 - 18 September 2026. Published in: Høeg, Emil Rosenlund ed. Proceedings of the 16th International Conference on Disability, Virtual Reality & Associated Technologies. Proceedings of the International Conference on Disability Virtual Reality & Associated Technologies. AAU Open, pp. 85-90. 10.54337/aau.icdvrat26.12

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Abstract

Knee osteoarthritis (OA) is highly prevalent in Saudi Arabia and associated with poor exercise adherence. Virtual reality (VR)-based physiotherapy may enhance engagement; however, its acceptability remains underexplored. This qualitative study explored the expectations, needs, and concerns of Saudi end-users (individuals with knee OA and physiotherapists) regarding VR-based physiotherapy. Fourteen semi-structured interviews were analysed using inductive thematic analysis. Four themes were developed: (1) knowledge and impact of knee OA; (2) perceptions of exercise for knee OA; (3) digital health in Saudi Arabia; and (4) perceptions of VR-based physiotherapy. Participants expressed generally positive attitudes, particularly regarding motivation and accessibility; however, concerns related to safety, cultural appropriateness, and digital literacy were evident. VR-based physiotherapy is perceived as promising, but implementation requires culturally appropriate design and system integration. The findings highlight context-specific determinants of digital rehabilitation adaptation.

Item Type:	Conference or Workshop Item - published (Paper)
Date Type:	Published Online
Status:	Published
Schools:	Schools > Healthcare Sciences
Publisher:	AAU Open
ISBN:	9788776423063
ISSN:	3151-8974
Date of First Compliant Deposit:	23 September 2026
Last Modified:	02 Oct 2026 09:04
URI:	https://orca.cardiff.ac.uk/id/eprint/189782

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