Virtual Reality-Based Posture Correction Program on Low Back Pain

Low back pain (LBP) is one of the most common musculoskeletal disorders among desk workers and is strongly associated with prolonged sitting, poor posture, and reduced physical activity. Extended periods of desk work contribute to biomechanical and neuromuscular changes, including decreased lumbar lordosis, reduced spinal mobility, muscle tightness, impaired trunk muscle activation, and altered postural control. These changes may lead to chronic nonspecific low back pain, functional limitations, and deficits in dynamic balance.

Postural deviations such as forward head posture, rounded shoulders, thoracic kyphosis, and pelvic misalignment are frequently observed in sedentary workers. These alterations affect spinal alignment and may impair proprioceptive input, resulting in decreased balance performance and inefficient neuromuscular control. Impaired balance and reduced sensorimotor awareness have been reported in individuals with chronic low back pain, increasing the risk of functional disability and musculoskeletal dysfunction.

Virtual reality (VR)-based rehabilitation has emerged as an innovative approach for improving postural control and reducing pain. VR systems provide real-time visual feedback and interactive task-oriented exercises that promote active participation and enhance sensorimotor retraining. Through immersive environments, VR interventions may improve trunk muscle activation, proprioceptive awareness, motor coordination, and postural stability while increasing motivation and adherence to exercise programs.

Dynamic posture correction exercises performed within a VR environment may provide additional benefits by integrating physical, cognitive, and sensory stimulation. Previous studies have demonstrated that VR-based interventions can reduce pain intensity, improve functional performance, enhance balance control, and decrease fear-avoidance behaviors associated with chronic pain conditions.

Therefore, this study aims to investigate the effect of a virtual reality-based posture correction program on low back pain intensity and dynamic balance in desk workers. The findings may provide evidence regarding the effectiveness of VR-based posture correction as a rehabilitation strategy for addressing musculoskeletal and balance impairments associated with prolonged sedentary work.

Inclusion criteria

• Age between 25-60 years
• Desk workers (≥ 5 hours daily seated work)
• Chronic nonspecific low back pain lasting > 3 months
• Pain intensity between 2-6 on the Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS)
• No morbid obesity
• No physical therapy within the last 3 months
• Ability to understand and follow instructions
• No visual or hearing impairments affecting VR use
• Signed informed consent form

Exclusion criteria

• History of spinal surgery or spinal trauma
• Neurological, neuromuscular, or vestibular disorders
• Diabetes mellitus (Type I or II)
• Cardiovascular or respiratory disorders
• Thyroid dysfunction
• Pregnancy
• Medications affecting balance or alertness
• Current smokers
• Uncorrected visual impairments
• Psychiatric disorders
• History of frequent vertigo or cybersickness
• Flat foot or foot deformities affecting balance
• Polyneuropathy
• Any condition affecting balance control
• Participation in other exercise or rehabilitation programs
• Inability or unwillingness to adhere to the study protocol