Randomized trial shows reduced kinesiophobia in patients post-ACL surgery using virtual reality, suggesting improved rehab outcomes.
Key Points
The study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of virtual reality in reducing kinesiophobia during post-surgical knee rehabilitation.
Randomized controlled trial with 47 participants undergoing ACL reconstruction, assigned to VR plus rehabilitation or conventional rehabilitation.
VR group utilized a 20-minute daily program for 4 weeks, involving immersive exercises and a virtual physiotherapist.
Outcome measures included IKDC scores, limb symmetry for quadriceps strength, active knee extension range, and kinesiophobia at multiple time points.
VR intervention group reported significantly lower kinesiophobia scores at 4 weeks (27.00 vs. 33.35, Cohen’s d = −0.971, p = 0.045).
No statistically significant differences in IKDC scores or limb symmetry for quadriceps strength and range of motion were found, but improvements were noted in both groups over time (p < 0.001).
Moderate effect sizes were observed for IKDC scores at 4 weeks (Cohen’s d = 0.559) and 36 weeks (Cohen’s d = 0.722).