Virtual Reality for Rotator Cuff Pain
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial investigates how virtual reality (VR) exercises can assist individuals with rotator cuff-related shoulder pain. The researchers aim to determine if these VR activities improve arm function, reduce pain, and lessen fear of movement. Participants will engage in four different VR exercises over four weeks to identify the most effective one. Suitable candidates for this trial have experienced shoulder pain related to their rotator cuff for at least six months and feel pain when moving their arm. As an unphased trial, this study provides a unique opportunity to explore innovative VR treatments for shoulder pain.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It's best to discuss this with the trial coordinators or your doctor.
What prior data suggests that these virtual reality interventions are safe for individuals with rotator cuff-related shoulder pain?
Past studies have shown that virtual reality (VR) rehabilitation is a safe and well-accepted option for people recovering from rotator cuff injuries. Research indicates that VR exercises can serve as a good alternative or addition to traditional physical therapy. Participants often report positive experiences with these VR programs, finding them easy to use and suitable for their needs.
One study found that VR-based rehabilitation helped reduce pain and improve shoulder movement, with no major reports of serious side effects. However, some individuals may experience dizziness or nausea during or after using VR, a condition known as cybersickness.
Overall, VR rehabilitation appears to be a promising and safe option for shoulder pain, with few negative effects reported. This makes it a practical choice for those interested in exploring new ways to improve shoulder health.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about virtual reality rehabilitation for rotator cuff pain because it offers a unique, immersive experience that traditional therapies can't match. Unlike standard treatments like physical therapy or medication, this approach uses interactive VR exercises to engage patients in a controlled, stimulating environment. The VR system can provide real-time feedback, allowing for personalized adjustments and potentially faster recovery by enhancing motivation and adherence to the exercise program. This innovative use of technology could revolutionize how we approach rehabilitation, making it more engaging and effective.
What evidence suggests that virtual reality is effective for rotator cuff pain?
In this trial, participants will engage in virtual reality (VR) rehabilitation exercises to address rotator cuff pain. A previous study found that VR rehab improved shoulder movement more than traditional methods. Many physical therapists found VR useful for treating rotator cuff problems without surgery. However, another study found no major difference in pain relief between VR and regular rehab. VR has also effectively managed pain for other issues, like knee problems. These early results suggest VR might help with shoulder pain and movement, but more research is needed to confirm this.12346
Who Is on the Research Team?
Catherine Mercier, OT,PhD
Principal Investigator
Centre for Interdisciplinary Research in Rehabilitation and Social Integration (Cirris)
Jean-Sébastien Roy, PT, PhD
Principal Investigator
Centre for Interdisciplinary Research in Rehabilitation and Social Integration (Cirris)
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for individuals with persistent shoulder pain due to rotator cuff injuries. Participants should be able to attend weekly clinic visits and complete online questionnaires. Those with certain conditions that might interfere with VR use or who cannot commit to the study schedule are excluded.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Pre-intervention Assessment
Participants undergo a pre-intervention evaluation to assess the effect of the education session
Treatment
Participants receive VR interventions and review pain education concepts
Post-intervention Assessment
Participants undergo a post-intervention evaluation to assess the primary objective
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Virtual Reality Rehabilitation
Trial Overview
The trial tests four types of virtual reality exercises designed to improve upper limb function and reduce pain, kinesiophobia, and catastrophizing in people with shoulder pain from rotator cuff injuries. It aims to find which VR intervention works best.
How Is the Trial Designed?
1
Treatment groups
Experimental Treatment
All participants will complete a four-week intervention, performing one of the four types of virtual reality (VR) exercises per week, so that each participant experiences all four exercises: 1. Unimanual distraction task with normal visual feedback 2. Bimanual distraction task with normal visual feedback 3. Unimanual reaching task with augmented visual feedback 4. Unimanual reaching task with diminished visual feedback During each session, participants will reach 18 targets positioned at heights of 60°, 90°, and 120° across three planes of motion (flexion, scaption, and abduction). Target positions will be adjusted to accommodate each participant's arm length and size. To ensure participant comfort, the session will end if repetitions are not completed within 2 minutes. The order of interventions will be randomized for each participant.
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Laval University
Lead Sponsor
Citations
Digital and virtual reality–based rehabilitation versus ...
Importantly, VR-based therapy led to significantly greater improvement in shoulder abduction ROM than conventional rehabilitation. However, gains in shoulder ...
Optimizing the Use of Virtual Reality in Rehabilitation for ...
The primary objective of this project is to study the impact on function, pain, kinesiophobia and pain catastrophizing of a block of four ...
Immersive virtual reality for shoulder rehabilitation
Many physiotherapists found the use of the VR application appropriate for patients with rotator cuff tears treated conservatively (63.6%) or ...
Journal Pre-proof
The. 225 overall results showed no statistically significant difference between VR-based and conventional. 226 rehabilitation in reducing perceived pain (MD: ...
Effectiveness of Virtual Reality for Pain Management in ...
VR shows potential for managing pain in MSK disorders, particularly knee conditions, with significant effectiveness using specialised non-immersive VR.
Review Article Effectiveness of telerehabilitation in the ...
The results suggest that telerehabilitation with diaphragmatic breathing retraining and shoulder stabilization exercises improves neck pain, ...
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