The Impact of Deep Core Muscle System Training Through Virtual Reality on Selected Posturographic Parameters.

Abstract

Objective: The aim of this study was to investigate the immediate effects of deep core muscle training in the plank position, using the Icaros^® system, integrated with virtual reality (VR), on selected posturographic parameters. Methods: To meet the stated objective, we utilized the Icaros^® therapeutic system (Icaros GmbH, Martinsried, Germany) for VR-based exercise. The posturographic parameters were measured using the FootScan^® force platform (Materialise Motion, Paal, Belgium). A representative sample of 30 healthy participants, 13 females and 17 males (age: 22.5 ± 2.1 years; weight: 65 ± 2.9 kg; height: 1.68 ± 0.4 m; BMI: 23.04 ± 1.75) was included in the study. All participants had no prior experience with VR. The selected posturographic parameters were the ellipse area (mm²) and traveled distance (mm), assessed four times at five-minute intervals, following a 15 min VR-based training session on the Icaros^® system. Results: The results revealed that the participants experienced a sense of instability after completing the 15 min VR session, as objectively demonstrated by changes in the measured parameters. Both the ellipse area and traveled distance showed a worsening trend during the first three measurements: immediately post-exercise, at 5 min, and at 10 min post-exercise. A downward trend was observed in the fourth measurement, taken 15 min after exercise. Statistically significant differences were found between both parameters: ellipse area (p = 0.000) and traveled distance (p = 0.000). Post hoc analysis further confirmed significant differences between the time points. Conclusions: Based on the findings, it is recommended that trainers and physiotherapists supervising athletes or patients using the Icaros^® VR system allow for a minimum rest period of 15 min in a seated or lying position following exercise. This recovery period appears essential to mitigate the sensation of instability and to reduce the risk of complications or injury due to potential falls.