Effect of Virtual Reality-based Therapy Combined With Balance Training on Biodex Balance System in Female Patients With Fibromyalgia

PURPOSE: To Study the Effect of virtual reality based therapy combined with balance training using biodex balance system on female patients with fibromyalgia .

BACKGROUND: Fibromyalgia (FM) is a chronic disorder defined by report of chronic widespread pain including axial pain and presence of multiple tender points on physical exam . Beyond the defining criteria.A recent survey reported balance problems as one of the top 10 most debilitating symptoms with prevalence of 45%. Balance or postural stability is a very complex task that involves the integration of multiple sensory inputs to execute appropriate neuromuscular activity needed to maintain balance .

Biodex balance system is a relatively new instrument that can be used for the assessment and management of balance dysfunction. Preliminary studies reported positive effects of balance training on Biodex balance system for the improvement of balance function.

Virtual reality based therapy (VRBT) could be effective as a non-pharmacological alternative intervention to reduce pain in women with FM. It improves dynamic balance, as it is an active therapy that requires engaging in physical activities during the sessions.VRBT requires autonomous movement of different body parts that can increase muscle tone and the perception of pain-free movement favoring the elimination of restrictions to movement included in the cerebral body scheme due to continued pain.