Journal of Kerman University of Medical Sciences

The effect of using virtual reality during manual therapy techniques on pain intensity in physiotherapy of patients with total knee arthroplasty: A protocol for a prospective randomized controlled trial

Articles in Press

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

Fatemeh Yaghoubi 1
Taha Samad Soltani 2
Jalal Ahadi 3
Tabassom Ghanavati 3
Shadi Naderyan 4
Zahra Salahzadeh 3

1 Faculty of Rehabilitation Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran

2 Department of Health Information Technology, School of Management and Medical Informatics, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran

3 Physiotherapy Department, Faculty of Rehabilitation Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran

4 Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran

Abstract
Background: Pain management during physiotherapy treatment of patients with total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is challenging. Using VR, as an emerging technology, in the physiotherapy of patients is among the most recent pain management solutions. Therefore, this study aimed to examine the effect of combining VR and manual therapy on pain intensity in patients with TKA.
 Methods: This assessor-masked randomized controlled trial will include 52 participants who will be randomly assigned to two groups: (a) an intervention group receiving manual therapy combined with VR, and (b) a control group receiving conventional physical therapy. The conventional physical therapy consisted of electrotherapy, cryotherapy, manual therapy techniques, and exercise therapy. Both groups will complete 10 treatment sessions. The primary outcome will be pain intensity, while secondary outcomes will include active range of motion, functional disability of the knee joint, treatment satisfaction, and adherence to exercises.
Results: To the best of our knowledge, this study will be the first to investigate the use of VR and manual therapy together in patients who have had total knee arthroplasty. If VR proves effective in reducing pain, it could be recommended as a complementary option in routine physiotherapy for these patients.
Conclusion: This protocol is intended to assess the potential benefits of incorporating virtual reality into conventional physical therapy for patients with total knee arthroplasty.

Keywords

Virtual Reality
Physical Therapy
Pain Management
Replacement
Knee
Subjects
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Journal of Kerman University of Medical Sciences

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript
Available Online from 03 November 2025

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