The Effectiveness of Virtual Reality Based Rehabilitation in Patients With Knee Osteoarthritis

The Effectiveness of Virtual Reality Based Rehabilitation in Patients With Knee Osteoarthritis

We aimed to investigate the effects of virtual reality based rehabilitation program on patients with knee osteoarthritis.

Sixty volunteer participants with knee osteoarthritis aged 40 to 65 years who were at stage of 2-3 according to the Kellgren Lawrence radiological evaluation were included in the study.

Participants were randomly divided into two groups as virtual and control group. While a conventional physiotherapy program consisting of electrotherapy and exercise program was applied to both groups 5 days a week for 6 weeks, a virtual reality program was added to the virtual group for 6 weeks, 5 days a week. At the beginning of the treatment and at the end of the sixth week, ROM, pain, kinesiophobia, proprioception, balance, muscle strength and functional status were evaluated between groups.

Inclusion Criteria:

• knee osteoarhritis aged 40 to 75 years who were at stage of 2-3 according to the Kellegren Lawrence radiological evaluation were included in the study.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Those who have received physical therapy in the last 6 months
• Having serious systemic and cardiovascular diseases that may prevent exercise
• Neurological and orthopedic problems affecting gait
• Those with sensory defects
• Malignancy diagnosed
• Those who have received PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) treatment or intra-articular steroid injection treatment in the last 6 months
• With metal implants
• Serious hearing loss or visual impairment
• Communication problems