Using virtual reality to improve shoulder function after rotator cuff surgery

The Effect of Virtual Reality Intervention and Its Impact on Upper Extremity Function in Patients With Post-operative Rotator Cuff Repair

Not applicable Interventional Cairo University · NCT06246305

This study tests if using virtual reality can help people recover better and regain shoulder function after rotator cuff surgery compared to regular physical therapy.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment60 (estimated)
Ages19 Years to 70 Years
SexAll
SponsorCairo University Academic / other
Locations1 site (Cairo)
Trial IDNCT06246305 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study investigates the impact of virtual reality (VR) intervention on upper extremity function in patients who have undergone post-operative rotator cuff repair. Participants will be randomly assigned to either a control group receiving conventional physical therapy or an experimental group utilizing VR training. The goal is to determine if VR can enhance recovery and functionality in the affected shoulder compared to traditional rehabilitation methods. The study focuses on individuals with specific types of rotator cuff tears and aims to provide innovative rehabilitation solutions.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 18 to 70 who have had a specific type of rotator cuff repair within 5 days post-operation.

Not a fit: Patients with large or irreparable rotator cuff tears, severe osteoarthritis, or previous shoulder surgeries may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly enhance recovery and improve shoulder function for patients after rotator cuff surgery.

How similar studies have performed: While the use of virtual reality in neuro-rehabilitation has shown promise, its application in orthopedic rehabilitation, particularly for rotator cuff repair, is still novel and largely untested.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

1. Older than 18 years old and younger than 70 years old, and referred by the Adult Orthopedic Department with arthroscopic RC repair of a non-retracted isolated full-thickness supraspinatus tear with maximum 5 days post operation.
2. Poor response to initial non-operative treatment.

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Large-sized RC tears (3-5 cm),
2. Massive or irreparable RC tears,
3. Anteroinferior labral (Bankart) or superior labrum anterior to posterior lesions,
4. Severe glenohumeral osteoarthritis,
5. Adhesive capsulitis, or
6. Previous surgery on the affected shoulder
7. Re-tears of the RC.
8. Indication for revision RCR
9. Severe neurological deficits
10. Infection in the affected shoulder
11. Blindness and/or illiteracy

Where this trial is running

Cairo

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Rotator Cuff Impingement SyndromeRotator Cuff TearsRotator Cuff Injuriesrotator cuff repairpost-operativeupper extremityfunction
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.