Effect of Virtual Reality Exergaming on pain, functional disability and Quality of Life in Women with Fibromyalgia Syndrome”: A literature review

Abstract

Fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS) is chronic pain disorder accompanied by high levels of fatigue, stiffness and impaired mobility that affects the ability to perform daily life activities, diminishing the quality of life (QoL) of fibromyalgia patients. The worldwide prevalence of this condition ranges from 0.2% to 6.6%, with a mean value of 2.7%. Female have 80 and 96% predominance of FMS in individuals aged above 30.  Among various types of non-pharmacological and physiotherapy interventions, Virtual reality Exergaming (VRE) have emerged as a promising therapy for different populations by providing a three-dimensional (3D) environments and multisensory stimulation to users. VRE are considered as therapeutic tool to manage pain. The aim of this study was to assess the effectiveness of VRE in managing pain, poor physical fitness, physical fatigue, cardiopulmonary capacity, and quality of life (QoL) in women with FMS. The goal of this literature review was to assess and evaluate the effects of VRE on pain, functional disability and Quality of Life in Women with Fibromyalgia Syndrome. This literature review was conducted, adhering to PRISMA guidelines. A comprehensive search was performed using keywords in Google Scholar, PEDro, PubMed, and Research-Gate to identify relevant studies. Out of 195 studies, 7 quality RCT studies were included. This literature review highlighted Virtual Reality Exergaming (VRE) as an effective therapeutic approach for reducing pain, improving functional disability and quality of life in women with Fibromyalgia Syndrome (FMS). Additionally, VRE was found to have positive secondary outcomes, including increased physical activity, improved mobility, enhanced physical function, better balance, and improved cardiorespiratory fitness in women with FMS.