Assessment of cybersickness symptoms during stimulation of an extreme scenario in virtual reality – one-shot case study

Background
As the use of virtual reality (VR) applications in clinical practice increases, interest in cybersickness (CS) symptoms has also grown. The literature suggests a relationship between the sense of presence in virtual environments and the severity of CS symptoms, influenced by factors such as navigation method, type of motion, and display characteristics. However, findings remain inconsistent. Some studies report a positive association between presence and CS, possibly due to the immersive nature of VR, which may simultaneously evoke a strong sense of “being there” and physiological discomfort.

Aims
The aim of this study was to assess the intensity of cybersickness following exposure to an extreme VR scenario and to analyse gender-related differences in symptom severity.

Material and methods
The study involved 40 participants (20 women and 20 men). The VR application Richie’s Plank Experience was used, simulating walking on a narrow plank suspended at a considerable height. The HTC Vive Pro system was employed for the VR exposure. Symptoms were assessed before and after the VR experience using a standardized questionnaire.

Results
The analysis revealed a significant increase in overall discomfort (from 27.5% to 70%) and a higher frequency of symptoms such as dizziness (from 0% to 22.5%), headache (from 7.5% to 20%), and difficulties with concentration (from 27.5% to 42.5%). Statistically significant changes were observed in oculomotor symptoms (p = 0.002), disorientation (p = 0.001), and total symptom scores (p < 0.001), with more pronounced effects among men.

Conclusions
Exposure to an extreme VR environment induces symptoms of cybersickness, which appear to be more pronounced in men. These findings highlight the need for further research into individual susceptibility to cybersickness and the development of effective prevention strategies