This study aimed to compare the impact of VR on knee proprioception with conventional proprioceptive training in amateur athletes.
34 subjects were selected via a questionnaire and divided into 2 groups: the experimental group undergoing conventional proprioceptive training with VR (n=22) and the comparative group undergoing conventional proprioceptive training without VR (n=12). Evaluation materials included VR, the Star Excursion Balance Test (SEBT), and the Kinvent system. The study comprised 8 visits: 2 for initial and final evaluations, and 6 for training sessions.
The SEBT demonstrated significant improvement in both groups, yet the comparative group exhibited superior results, particularly concerning SEBT band parameters: anterior (p=0.002), antero-medial (p=0.009), postero-medial (p=0.02), posterior (p=0.04), and anterolateral (p=0.001). Conversely, Kinvent revealed stability regression in the experimental group, notably during single-leg eyes closed and double-leg eyes open conditions.
The study demonstrated overall balance improvement among participants following the exercise protocol. However, differences between comparative and experimental groups, along with methodological limitations, were noted, emphasizing the need to consider these factors when interpreting results and guiding future research.
Integrating VR into training protocols can enhance proprioceptive rehabilitation, improve athletic performance, and reduce injury risks, while also informing educational frameworks and guiding policy decisions in sports and physiotherapy practices.
Knee
Proprioception
