Effect of Virtual Reality on Trunk Control in Children with Developmental Delays

Background: Developmental delays affect motor function and trunk control in children, impacting their overall development and daily activities. Virtual reality (VR) interventions have the potential to enhance motor abilities through engaging, personalized therapies.Objective: This study aimed to determine the effectiveness of virtual reality-based neurodevelopmental treatment with trunk control exercises (VR-NDT-TCE) in improving trunk control and cognitive functions in children with developmental delays.Methods: A single-blinded randomized controlled trial was conducted with 22 children aged 2-8 years diagnosed with developmental delays. Participants were randomly assigned to Group A (NDT-TCE) or Group B (VR-NDT-TCE) for a six-week intervention, three times per week. Trunk control was measured using the Trunk Control Measurement Scale (TCMS), and cognition was assessed through the Hammersmith Infant Neurological Examination (HINE) Performa. Data analysis was performed using SPSS version 27 with paired t-tests and Mann-Whitney tests.Results: Significant improvements were observed in trunk control (TCMS score: 20.18 ± 2.40 in Group A vs. 24.18 ± 4.67 in Group B, p = 0.017). Group B showed notable gains in cognitive parameters, including conscious state (p < 0.001), emotional state (p = 0.012), and social orientation (p = 0.031).Conclusion: VR-NDT-TCE significantly improved trunk control and cognitive outcomes, offering an effective intervention for children with developmental delays.