Effects of Virtual Reality-Assisted Task-Oriented Training on Clinical and Psychosocial Outcomes in Individuals with Rotator Cuff Tears: A Randomized Controlled Single-Blind Trial.

Abstract

Objective The aim of this randomized controlled study was to examine the effects of virtual reality-assisted task-oriented training (VR-TOT) added to conventional physiotherapy in individuals with rotator cuff tears (RCT). Design Prospective, single-blinded, two-arm, randomized controlled trial. Setting Kırşehir Ahi Evran University Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Clinic. Participants Sixty individuals with partial RCT were randomized to the VR-TOT group (VR-TOTG, n = 30) or the control group (CG, n = 30). Interventions Both groups received six weeks of progressive conventional physiotherapy, while VR-TOTG additionally received VR-TOT based on activities of daily living. Main outcome measures The primary outcome was upper extremity function assessed using DASH. Secondary outcomes included pain intensity (VAS), shoulder-related pain and disability (SPADI), kinesiophobia (TSK), pain catastrophizing (PCS), psychological status (HADS), and grip and pinch strength. Results For the primary outcome, the mean between-group difference in change in DASH was -3.93 points (95% CI, -4.79 to -3.08; p 0.05). Conclusion Adding VR-TOT to conventional physiotherapy resulted in a statistically greater short-term improvement in DASH, the primary outcome, together with additional improvements in pain, shoulder-related pain and disability, kinesiophobia, and pain catastrophizing. However, the between-group DASH difference did not reach the published MCID, and longer-term studies are needed.