Effect of Virtual reality based exercise protocol on scapular orientation in post traumatic shoulder injuries: An experimental study

This randomized controlled trial aims to evaluate the effect of combining virtual reality with conventional physiotherapy on scapular orientation in individuals with post-traumatic shoulder injuries. The study will involve a total of 60 participants, aged between 18 to 30 years, who have sustained shoulder injuries such as proximal humerus or acromioclavicular joint fractures (post three months), conservatively managed shoulder dislocations, or rotator cuff pathologies. Participants will be randomly allocated into two groups of 30 each using a computer-generated randomization method.

Group A will receive conventional therapy alone, which includes a structured four-week physiotherapy program comprising pendulum exercises, scapular retraction, isometric exercises, scapular push-ups, wall angels, resistance band exercises, serratus anterior punches, prone Y & T raises, scapular clock, dynamic hug, and ROM training with weights. Each participant will undergo two sessions per week, for a total of eight sessions over four weeks. Each session will include a 10-minute moist heat pack application at the start, followed by 30–40 minutes of exercise therapy.

Group B will receive conventional therapy combined with virtual reality-based rehabilitation. In addition to the conventional exercises, participants in this group will engage in 15-minute VR sessions using the Oculus Quest 2 headset, involving interactive programs such as Virtual Rehab (shoulder ROM training), Shoulder Motion Challenge, and VR Scapular Stabilization modules. These sessions aim to enhance patient engagement, motor learning, and adherence to therapy.

The primary outcome measures Pain assessed using the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), shoulder function assessed via the Shoulder Pain and Disability Index (SPADI), and range of motion measured using a goniometer. The trial will follow a single-blinded design, where the outcome assessor is blinded to group allocation. The study will be conducted at the Outpatient Department of Dr. D.Y. Patil College of Physiotherapy, Pune. This research aims to contribute to developing more effective and engaging rehabilitation strategies for post-traumatic shoulder injury patients by integrating virtual reality into traditional physiotherapeutic protocols.