Ergonomic considerations in exergaming delivery in orthopedic and neurologic rehabilitation: a systematic review protocol

Abstract Background The increasing popularity of exergaming (exercise and gaming) has already emerged in the rehabilitation setting to help individuals develop, maintain, and restore maximum body movement and physical function. However, there is a lack of attention to the risk of sustaining injuries associated with exergaming. While there are reports of potential harm or injuries for patients using this intervention, ergonomics has still not been given attention or consideration in the deliverance of exergaming during rehabilitation. Objectives The primary aim of this review is to identify the ergonomic considerations in the delivery of exergaming in rehabilitation. The secondary aim is to review the outcome measures used in the results of exergaming to patients with neurologic and orthopedic conditions from the literature gathered and appraised. Methods The study will use a systematic review design to identify the ergonomic considerations and outcome measures in the delivery of exergaming and rehabilitation of neurologic and orthopedic patients by using only randomized controlled trial studies. Centre for Evidence-based Medicine of Oxford University will be used to appraise the reliability and validity of the chosen article and the Mendeley software, Rayyan QCRI application, and a spreadsheet software will be used in the inclusion, critical appraisal, and data gathering process to ensure objectivity. Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews (PRISMA) will be provided for visualization of the study acquisition and selection process. The extracted data will undergo analysis and will then determine the ergonomic considerations and outcome measures utilized in the studies reviewed.