The efficacy of virtual reality technology on postoperative rehabilitation of patients with cervical spondylotic myelopathy(CSM): study protocol for a randomized controlled trial

Abstract Background Patients with cervical spondylosis myelopathic (CSM) may experience severe neurological dysfunction due to untimely intervention of the spinal cord compression after surgery. These disorders may lead to sensory and motion disorders, causing considerable psychological distress. Recent studies have demonstrated virtual reality (VR) technology can be an effective tool in treating spinal cord injuries.On this basis, we have developed an exploratory research project to investigate the impact of this intervention on postoperative patients with CSM. Methods The purpose of this randomized controlled trial was to evaluate the efficacy of combining VR training with conventional rehabilitation for postoperative patients with CSM. A total of 78 patients will be recruited, randomized to either the conventional rehabilitation group or the group receiving VR training and conventional rehabilitation.The Japanese Orthopaedic Association (JOA) will be the main measurement, also with secondary outcomes will be measured by the Visual Analog Scale (VAS), Neck Disability Index (NDI), and functional MRI (fMRI).The data analysis will identify differences between the intervention and control groups, as well as any relationship between intra-group brain functional area changes and subjective scales after the intervention. Discussion This trial aims to investigate the effect of VR training on postoperative rehabilitation for patients with CSM after 12 intervention treatments. Positive and negative measurement results would further our understanding of the effectiveness of the intervention and its neural impact. If effective, it would provide new evidence for treatment option of postoperative rehabilitation of CSM. Trial registration Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (ChiCTR2300071544).Registered 17 May 2023, https://www.chictr.org.cn/