Virtual reality rehabilitation compared with conventional therapy for chronic low back pain
Effects of Virtual Reality-Based Rehabilitation Compared With Conventional Physiotherapy on Motor and Psychosocial Function in Patients With Chronic Low Back Pain: A Randomized Controlled Trial
NA · University of Rzeszow · NCT07463105
This study will test whether adding non-immersive virtual reality training to standard physiotherapy helps adults 40–65 with chronic low back pain reduce pain and improve movement and balance.
Quick facts
| Phase | NA |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 80 (estimated) |
| Ages | 40 Years to 65 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University of Rzeszow (other) |
| Locations | 1 site (Sanok, Podkarpackie Voivodeship) |
| Trial ID | NCT07463105 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This is a prospective, randomized controlled trial enrolling 80 adults aged 40–65 with chronic low back pain lasting at least three months. Participants are randomized to conventional physiotherapy alone or conventional physiotherapy with part of the exercises replaced by non‑immersive virtual reality training using the Tecnobody Homing Studio system. The four-week program focuses on movement quality, postural control, coordination, and functional mobility through interactive tasks with visual and auditory biofeedback using a 3D markerless camera. Outcomes will compare pain, function, and postural metrics between groups.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 40–65 with chronic low back pain lasting at least three months, average pain ≥4/10, Oswestry Disability Index ≥15%, able to walk independently, and without contraindications to physiotherapy or VR.
Not a fit: Patients with acute back pain, active neurological/orthopedic/rheumatologic or inflammatory diseases, significant cognitive impairment, severe vestibular symptoms, epilepsy, or major visual problems (or those outside the age/pain criteria) are unlikely to benefit from this protocol.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the approach could make rehabilitation more engaging and lead to greater or faster improvements in pain, function, and balance for people with chronic low back pain.
How similar studies have performed: Previous small trials of virtual reality in musculoskeletal rehabilitation have shown promising effects on engagement and some functional outcomes, but evidence is mixed and non‑immersive markerless systems remain less well studied.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Diagnosis of chronic low back pain lasting at least 3 months * Average pain intensity ≥4/10 during the previous week on the Numeric Rating Scale (NRS) * Age between 40 and 65 years * Ability to walk independently without assistive devices * Functional disability related to low back pain defined as Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) ≥15% * No contraindications to participation in a physiotherapy program or virtual reality training * Ability to understand study procedures and follow instructions * Written informed consent to participate in the study Exclusion Criteria: * Acute low back pain or pain lasting less than 3 months * Neurological, orthopedic, rheumatological, oncological diseases or active inflammatory conditions that may affect study outcomes * Cognitive impairment limiting the ability to understand instructions or participate in rehabilitation * Contraindications to virtual reality training such as severe dizziness, nausea, epilepsy, or severe visual or auditory impairment * Contraindications to body composition analysis (e.g., implanted cardiac pacemaker or other electronic implants) * Unstable medical condition or uncontrolled cardiovascular or respiratory disorders preventing participation in rehabilitation * Participation in other rehabilitation programs during the study period * Failure to complete the four-week rehabilitation program * Lack of written informed consent
Where this trial is running
Sanok, Podkarpackie Voivodeship
- Sensoreh Pastyrzak Centrum rehabilitacji niemowląt, dzieci i dorosłych — Sanok, Podkarpackie Voivodeship, Poland (RECRUITING)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Michal Pastyrzak — University of Rzeszow
- Study coordinator: Michal Pastyrzak
- Email: michalpastyrzak@gmail.com
- Phone: +48 664221066
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions: Chronic Low Back Pain, Virtual Reality Rehabilitation, Kinesiophobia, Postural Control