Virtual Reality-Based Rehabilitation in Chronic Low Back Pain: Effects on Muscle Architecture, Balance, and Satisfaction (VR-LBPREHAB)

Chronic low back pain is a prevalent musculoskeletal condition associated with altered muscle activation, impaired postural control, and thoracolumbar fascia changes that may contribute to persistent pain and disability. Conventional rehabilitation approaches such as stabilization and motor control exercises are widely recommended, yet patient adherence and motivation often limit their effectiveness. Virtual reality (VR)-based rehabilitation integrates visual, auditory, and interactive elements that can enhance engagement, provide distraction from pain, and encourage more consistent exercise participation. While VR interventions have shown benefits in populations such as stroke, cerebral palsy, and multiple sclerosis, the evidence in chronic low back pain remains limited. This randomized controlled trial is designed to investigate the clinical and functional effects of VR-based rehabilitation compared with conventional motor control exercises in individuals with chronic low back pain. The intervention will combine traditional physiotherapy approaches with VR-based exercises to evaluate potential improvements in muscle architecture, balance control, and patient-centered outcomes such as satisfaction and adherence. The study will contribute novel data on the feasibility and effectiveness of VR-based rehabilitation in chronic low back pain, with the goal of providing physiotherapists and clinicians with evidence to guide innovative treatment strategies. The adapted approach is expected to promote adherence, improve functional outcomes, and address gaps in the current literature on VR applications in musculoskeletal rehabilitation.