This Study Explores How Short-term Immersive VR With Exercises and Ergonomic Training Can Reduce Neck Pain, Improve Movement, Strength, and Work Productivity in Computer Users Who Are at High Risk Due to Prolonged Screen Time and Poor Posture.

Launched by GULF MEDICAL UNIVERSITY · Apr 30, 2025

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This study from Gulf Medical University in Ajman, United Arab Emirates is testing whether a short, immersive virtual reality (VR) program added to neck exercises and ergonomic training can help people who have neck pain from long hours at a computer. About 30 adults ages 18–50 with more than 6 hours of daily screen time and neck pain will be randomly assigned to one of two groups for three weeks. Group A does neck stretches and strengthening plus guidance to improve their workstation setup. Group B does the same, plus extra neck movements guided by a VR headset (Oculus Quest 3).

Researchers will look at changes in pain (rated on a 0–10 scale) and neck movement, as well as neck-related disability, work productivity, and how usable the VR tool is. Assessments happen before and after the 3-week program. The trial is currently enrolling by invitation, with an estimated completion by the end of June 2025. It aims to see if adding immersive VR is safe and whether it provides benefits beyond exercises and ergonomic training alone.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • 1. Computer users of age 18 to 50 years old with history of more than 6 hours of screen time. (9)
• • 2. Complaints of neck pain.
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • 1. Individuals having complains of vertigo
• • 2. Radiating pain
• • 3. Balance issues
• • 4. Motion sickness
• • 5. Recent cervical fractures/dislocations or whiplash injuries
• • 6. Complaints of photosensitivity
• • 7. Complaints of frequent headaches