Lumbar Spine Fracture Secondary to a Virtual Reality Game: A Case Report

Abstract

Study Design: Case report. Objectives: We report a case of lumbar spine fracture sustained during a virtual reality (VR) game. Summary of Literature Review: As video games have evolved, so have video game-related injuries. Because VR gamers wear headsets that block their ability to see the surroundings, it is thought that VR gamers are more at risk than previous video gamers. However, no VR game–related injuries have yet been reported. Materials and Methods : A 53-year-old man sustained a lumbar spine fracture during a VR game. Because the game simulated his fall from a building, he lost his balance and fell down on the floor. A compression fracture of the third lumbar vertebra was demonstrated by imaging and conservative management using rigid orthosis was done. Results: At a 1-year follow up, computed tomography showed complete bone union of L3. Conclusions: Even though the activity was simulated, the resulting injury was all too real. Clinicians should never underestimate the risk of VR game injuries and should consider them in the differential diagnosis of musculoskeletal injuries.