The Use of Virtual Reality-Assisted Therapy to Improve Shoulder function in Subacromial Impingement Syndrome: a Randomised Controlled Trial

Abstract

Subacromial impingement syndrome (SIS) is a common problem in clinical practice that affects the functionality of the shoulder. This study investigates the effectiveness of virtual reality (VR) assisted therapy in treating this syndrome, focusing on assessment using the Constant-Murley shoulder score. Materials and Methods: A group of 288 participants was randomly divided into two categories: an experimental group that received VR therapy and a control group that underwent conventional therapy. The Constant-Murley shoulder score assessed patients' progress, measuring shoulder function, joint mobility, and associated pain. Results: The participants underwent therapeutic interventions for 50 weeks, and the results were compared between the two groups. The experimental group that benefited from VR therapy showed significant improvements in Constant-Murley scores, indicating an increase in shoulder functionality, joint mobility, and pain reduction compared to the control group. Conclusion: VR therapy has proven effective in improving shoulder functionality in patients with SIS according to the Constant-Murley score. These results support the use of VR as an innovative and promising therapeutic option in treating this musculoskeletal condition.