The Effect of Three-Month Therapeutic and Ergonomic Exercise Based on Virtual Space on Musculoskeletal Disorder in Computer Users

Abstract

Introduction: One of the developed groups in the current society is computer users which has increased its importance taking daily development of computer among different social classes. Computer users are apt to musculoskeletal disorders; so the objective of the present study was to investigate the effect of three-month modification and ergonomic exercises based on virtual space on musculoskeletal disorder in computer users. Material and Methods: In this semi-experimental study, 75 computer users were randomly placed in control group (ergonomic) and so were the same number in the experimental group (a combination including therapeutic and ergonomic exercises). The diagnosis and treatment of musculoskeletal disorders were received through virtual space in both groups. The control group was engaged in ergonomic therapeutic exercise and the experimental group received therapeutic exercise besides ergonomic therapeutic interventions. The pain and disability rates were evaluated before and after three-month intervention through Nordik's modified questionnaire. In order to analyze the findings Chi-squared test was applied. Findings: Lumbago and neck pain decreased in the individuals suffered from waist and neck disorder in experimental group (athletic and ergonomic rehabilitation based on virtual space) comparing to control group both in 12-month and past 7 days evaluations (p<0.01). Moreover, the pain in shoulder, back, knee and ankle has significantly decreased in the experimental group comparing to control group in 12-month evaluation. Conclusion: It can be inferred from the findings of the study that the application of therapeutic and ergonomic exercise based on virtual space leads to the improvement of chronic musculoskeletal disorders in computer users. Therefore doing such kinds of exercise is advised.