Innovative Rehabilitation: Integrating VR-Based Sensorimotor Training Into Comprehensive Neck Rehabilitation

Virtual Reality Neck-based Sensorimotor Training Versus Sensorimotor Training in Mechanical Non-specific Neck Pain

The research aims to treat chronic non-specific neck pain using virtual reality (VR) technologies with sensory-motor training. Chronic neck pain is widespread and highly prevalent in Egyptian society due to many factors, such as sitting for long periods in front of a computer or smartphone, which leads to a decline in productivity at work and a constant feeling of fatigue. This problem is considered one of the widespread health problems that affect individuals of all ages and greatly affect their daily lives.

This project was chosen based on the growing awareness of the need to search for innovative solutions to this health problem that hinders productivity and affects the general comfort of individuals.

The reserch aims to integrate sensory-motor therapy with virtual reality, which helps patients improve movement and flexibility and reduce pain. It does this by simulating exciting interactive environments that engage their attention and help them relieve pain away from traditional treatment methods.

Virtual reality, a novel form of technology, is gaining attention in the medical field for its potential to aid inpatient rehabilitation. This experience will immerse the patient in an interactive and engaging journey. Virtual reality feedback can assist patients with chronic musculoskeletal pain by offering them various sensory and motor tasks to enhance their postural control.

Moreover, virtual reality offers a distracting experience that aids in reducing patients' pain and emotional distress. Using a specialized device on their head (Head-mounted device) (HMD) or screen, patients can participate in computer-based exercises as part of virtual reality physical therapy.

Combining virtual reality with comprehensive sensorimotor training can be beneficial in treating chronic neck pain.

Inclusion Criteria:

1. Fourty patients diagnosed with mechanical neck pain between 18- and 40 years old with mechanical neck pain.
2. Patients with pain intensity scores (>3) on the visual analog scale (VAS; 0-100mm) for an average of three weeks before the study.
3. Neck Disability Index (NDI) scoring 20%-60% (>6) (moderate to severe disability).

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Any history of lower extremity or spine trauma or surgery, recognized and observable spinal deformity, neurological disorders, cervical fracture/dislocation, whiplash injuries, neurological/cardiovascular/respiratory disorders affecting patients' physical performance, or inability to provide informed consent.
2. Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV), as confirmed by the Dix Hallpike test.
3. Pregnancy.
4. Patients who had received physical therapy interventions for neck pain within three months preceding the study were also ineligible for participation and were excluded.