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Completed

NCT Number: NCT07577778

Effect of Virtual Reality Training on Pain, Functional Disability, and Lumbar Reposition Error in Patients With Chronic Non-Specific Low Back Pain

This study aims to investigate the effect of virtual reality (VR) training on pain intensity, functional disability, and lumbar reposition error in patients with chronic non-specific low back pain.

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Key information

Conditions

Non Specific Chronic Low Back Pain

Age range

21 year–45 year

Sex eligibility

All sexes

Study type

Interventional

Phase

Not applicable

Primary location

Cairo University

Giza, 12613, Egypt

About this study

This randomized controlled trial was conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of virtual reality (VR) training in patients with chronic non-specific low back pain (CNSLBP). Chronic low back pain is a highly prevalent condition associated with impaired proprioception, altered motor control, and functional disability.

Fifty participants diagnosed with CNSLBP were randomly assigned into two groups. The intervention group received virtual reality-based training in addition to conventional physiotherapy, while the control group received conventional treatment alone.

Outcome measures included pain intensity assessed by the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), functional disability assessed by the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), and lumbar repositioning error measured using an iPhone inclinometer application.

The study aimed to determine whether VR training could significantly improve pain, functional outcomes, and proprioceptive accuracy in this population.

Who can participate

Healthy volunteers accepted: No

Only the study team can determine whether someone qualifies for participation.

Inclusion criteria

  • Patients with low back pain ≥ 12 weeks Age: 21-45 years Both genders BMI: 18.5-24.9

Exclusion criteria

  • iabetic neuropathy Sciatica Spine deformities Previous lumbar surgery Neurological or vestibular disorders Visual disorders Malignancy or trauma Structural spinal disorders (stenosis, osteoporosis, etc.)

Treatment and study plan

Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS)

Device

TENS was applied in a prone position with electrodes placed over the painful area. Low-frequency stimulation (2-10 Hz) was used to achieve analgesic effects. Intensity was adjusted to produce a strong but comfortable tingling sensation. Each session lasted 20-60 minutes.

Therapeutic Ultrasound

Drug

Ultrasound therapy was applied using appropriate frequency (1 MHz for deep tissues, 3 MHz for superficial tissues) and intensity (0.5-2.0 W/cm²). Continuous or pulsed modes were selected based on the condition. Each session lasted 5-10 minutes.

Proprioceptive Exercises

Other

Participants performed trunk stabilization exercises including supine bridge, supine bridge on Swiss ball, and prone plank. Each exercise was performed for 30 seconds with 30 seconds rest, repeated 5 times, 3 sets per session, 3 times per week.

Virtual Reality (VR) Training

Device

Participants underwent VR training using Xbox 360 Kinect system. The setup included a motion sensor and projector, allowing full-body interaction through game-based activities.

Training consisted of interactive games (e.g., rafting, running, ball hitting) designed to improve trunk control and motor function. Sessions were conducted twice weekly for 30 minutes over 12 weeks. Exercises included movements such as jumping, trunk tilting, and arm coordination, with progressive difficulty levels.

Primary outcomes

  1. Pain intensity (VAS)

    Time frame: 1 Month

  2. Functional disability (Oswestry Disability Index)

    Time frame: 1 Month

  3. Lumbar reposition error (iPhone inclinometer)

    Time frame: 1 Month

Sponsors and collaborators

Lead sponsor

Cairo University

Other

Registry information

Official study title

Effect of Virtual Reality Training on Pain, Functional Disability, and Lumbar Reposition Error in Patients With Chronic Non-Specific Low Back Pain: A Randomized Control Trial

Important dates

Study start
2025
Primary completion
2026
Study completion
2026
First posted
May 11, 2026
Registry last updated
May 11, 2026

OpenTrials presents study information sourced from ClinicalTrials.gov. The official registry record should be consulted for the latest information.

View the official ClinicalTrials.gov record (opens in a new tab)

This listing is for discovery and informational purposes only. It is not medical advice, does not guarantee that a study is recruiting, and does not determine eligibility. Contact the study team and a qualified healthcare professional when considering participation.

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