Psychological Dimensions of Virtual Reality mediated Exercise programs in Knee Osteoarthritis Management: A Scoping Review
Keywords:
virtual reality, knee osteoarthritis, psychological dimensions, exercise interventions, kinesiophobia, rehabilitation.Abstract
Background: Knee osteoarthritis (KOA) involves substantial psychological complications beyond physical manifestations. While exercise remains the gold standard first line treatment, KOA patients often exhibit poor compliance due to pain-related and motivational obstacles. Immersive virtual reality (IVR) technology may improve exercise participation while targeting psychological dimensions of chronic pain conditions. This scoping review evaluates Virtual Reality (VR) and scope of IVR exercise interventions and their psychological impacts in KOA populations.
Methods: Following Joanna Briggs Institute methodology and PRISMA-ScR guidelines, this scoping review systematically mapped evidence regarding psychological effects of VR interventions in KOA patients. A comprehensive search strategy utilized Boolean operators and MeSH terms focusing on three primary concepts: Virtual reality technologies (Immersive and non-immersive), knee osteoarthritis populations, and psychological outcomes. Six databases were searched from inception: PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, Web of Science, PsycINFO, CINAHL Plus, and IEEE Xplore Digital Library.
Results: Fourteen studies meeting inclusion criteria were analysed, including two randomized controlled trials examining IVR in KOA, six cross-sectional studies investigating psychological factors in KOA, and two systematic reviews examining VR effects on kinesiophobia and exercise interventions for psychological parameters in KOA.
Conclusions: VR-mediated and conventional exercise interventions show promise for addressing KOA's psychological components alongside physical rehabilitation through kinesiophobia reduction, self-efficacy enhancement, and modification of related psychological factors. IVR demonstrates effectiveness in improving physical outcomes. Future investigations should establish standardized protocols and explore psychological effects of these interventions in KOA management.
