Comparison of virtual reality exergaming and home exercise programs in patients with subacromial impingement syndrome and scapular dyskinesis: Short term effect

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to compare the short term effects of home exercise program and virtual reality exergaming in patients with subacromial impingement syndrome (SAIS). METHODS: A total of 30 patients with SAIS were randomized into two groups which are Home Exercise Program (EX Group) (mean age: 40.6 ± 11.7 years) and Virtual Reality Exergaming Program (WII Group) (mean age: 40.33 ± 13.2 years). Subjects were assessed at the first session, at the end of the treatment (6 weeks) and at 1 month follow-up. The groups were assessed and compared with Visual Analogue Scale (based on rest, activity and night pain), Neer and Hawkins Tests, Scapular Retraction Test (SRT), Scapular Assistance Test (SAT), Lateral Scapular Slide Test (LSST) and shoulder disability (Shoulder Pain and Disability Index (SPADI)). RESULTS: Intensity of pain was significantly decreased in both groups with the treatment (p < 0.05). The WII Group had significantly better results for all Neer test, SRT and SAT than the EX Group (p < 0.05). CONCLUSION: Virtual reality exergaming programs with these programs were found more effective than home exercise programs at short term in subjects with SAIS. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level I, Therapeutic study.