Accepted for/Published in: Journal of Medical Internet Research
Date Submitted: Dec 29, 2022
Date Accepted: Jan 29, 2024
Virtual reality-based training in chronic low back pain: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
ABSTRACT
Background:
Low back pain is one of the most prevalent pain conditions worldwide. Virtual reality-based training has been used for chronic low back pain as a new treatment strategy.
Objective:
This study conducted a meta-analysis to evaluate the effects of virtual reality-based training on pain, pain-related fear and disability in people with chronic low back pain.
Methods:
We searched the PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro), the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) and the Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL) databases from inception until December 2022. Only randomized controlled trials (RCTs) assessing the effects of virtual reality-based training on individuals with chronic low back pain were selected. The Cochrane Risk of bias tool (RoB 2.0) and the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) approach were used to evaluate the quality of the methodology and evidence, respectively.
Results:
Nineteen RCTs involving 1019 patients were eligible for analysis. Virtual reality-based training showed significant improvements in pain (MD, -1.43; 95% CI, -1.86 to -1.00; I2=95%; P<0.001), pain-related fear (MD, -5.46; 95% CI, -9.40 to 1.52; I2=90%; P=0.007) and disability (MD, -12.16; 95% CI, -21.23 to -3.08; I2=96%; P=0.009) in individuals with chronic low back pain immediately after interventions. However, there were no significant differences observed in pain and pain-related fear in the short term (up to 3 months after intervention).
Conclusions:
These findings indicated that virtual reality-based training can be used effectively for individuals with chronic low back pain immediately after interventions, especially to alleviate pain, pain-related fear and disability. However, the short-term benefits need more high-quality trials to be demonstrated. Clinical Trial: PROSPERO (CRD42021292633)
Citation
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