Gaze Stabilization vs Oculomotor Exercises on Cybersickness in Computer Users

Effectiveness of Gaze Stabilization Exercises Versus Oculomotor Exercises on Cybersickness in Computer Users: A Randomized Clinical Trial

Many people who use computers for long hours experience "cybersickness" (dizziness, nausea, blurred vision) because their eyes see movement on the screen but their body feels still. This study aims to see which type of eye and head exercises works best to fix this. We will compare Gaze Stabilization Exercises (head movements) against Oculomotor Exercises (eye movements). Forty-six computer users will perform these exercises for 4 weeks. We will measure their dizziness, vision, and quality of life before, during, and after the treatment.

This is a single-blinded, randomized clinical trial. Participants (n=46) will be recruited from The University of Faisalabad. Inclusion criteria include screen time >6 hours/day, computer usage for at least 10 years, and a Simulator Sickness Questionnaire (SSQ) score between 20 and 40.

Group A (Intervention): Gaze Stabilization Exercises. Week 1: View X1 exercises. Week 2: View X2 exercises. Week 3: Gaze shift exercises. Week 4: Imaginary Target exercises. (3 sessions/week, 1 minute per exercise, 3 times each).

Group B (Active Comparator): Oculomotor Exercises. Week 1: Range exercises. Week 2: Saccadic exercises. Week 3: Pursuit exercises. Week 4: Vergence exercises. (3 sessions/week, 1 minute per exercise, 3 times each).

Outcomes: The primary outcome is the change in Dynamic Visual Acuity (LogMAR scale) and Cybersickness (SSQ score). The secondary outcome is Quality of Life (SF-36 questionnaire). Measurements will be taken at baseline, Week 2, and Week 4. Data will be analyzed using SPSS version 20.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Screen time > 6 hours per day
• Computer usage history of at least 10 years
• Complaints of vertigo, blurred vision, and nausea during computer usage
• Positive Romberg's test
• Abnormal VOR (4-6 lines lost on LogMAR scale)
• SSQ score between 20 and 40

Exclusion Criteria:

• Diagnosed vestibular disorders (e.g., BPPV, Meniere's)
• History of falls in the past 6 months
• Pregnancy
• Any neurological or neurodegenerative disease
• Use of walking aids
• Severe visual impairments (worse than 6/12 on Snellen)