Effects of Different Relaxation Therapies on Pain and Sleep in Hip and Knee Arthroplasty Patients

Comparison of the Effects of Virtual Reality-based and Traditional Relaxation Therapy on Postoperative Pain and Sleep Quality in Patients Undergoing Hip and Knee Replacement Surgery

Hip and knee replacement surgery is commonly performed in older adults. After surgery, many patients experience pain, limited movement, and sleep problems. These difficulties can make daily activities such as walking or climbing stairs more challenging and may reduce quality of life during recovery.

Relaxation exercises are often used to help reduce pain and improve sleep after surgery. Virtual reality (VR) is a technology that provides a multisensory experience and may help people relax by shifting their attention away from pain and discomfort.

This study is designed to compare two different relaxation approaches used after hip and knee replacement surgery. One group of patients will perform relaxation exercises using virtual reality, while another group will perform traditional relaxation exercises. The study will examine pain levels and sleep quality in both groups.

The results of this study may help to better understand whether virtual reality-based relaxation can be used as an alternative or supportive method for managing pain and sleep problems after joint replacement surgery.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Those who volunteered to participate in the research,
• 18 years and older,
• No diagnosed mental or sleep problems, epilepsy, or depression,
• No vision, hearing, or speech problems,
• Those who speak Turkish,
• Knee and hip replacement surgery ,
• No active nausea or vomiting prior to the virtual reality application,
• According to the Numerical Rating Scale, the patient reports pain.
• Those receiving analgesia treatment according to clinical protocol,
• Anyone who owns a mobile phone or tablet capable of playing videos, using any brand of internet provider,
• Patients who had not previously practiced breathing exercises were included .

Exclusion Criteria:

• Having a problem that prevents communication,

• Being admitted to the ward where the surgery and study were performed at another center,

  . Complications develop after knee and hip replacement surgery,

• Nausea and vomiting may occur during the procedure.

• Wanting to withdraw from the research,

• Experiencing chronic pain.