Combining aerobic exercise and virtual reality for rehabilitation in Parkinson's disease

Combining Aerobic Exercise and Virtual Reality for Cognitive-motor Rehabilitation in Parkinson's Disease

Not applicable Interventional The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio · NCT05385497

This study is testing whether combining aerobic exercise with virtual reality can help improve movement and thinking skills in people with Parkinson's disease.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment25 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 85 Years
SexAll
SponsorThe University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio Academic / other
Locations1 site (San Antonio, Texas)
Trial IDNCT05385497 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This pilot proof-of-concept project aims to explore the feasibility and effects of combining aerobic exercise with virtual reality on motor behavior and neuroplasticity in individuals with Parkinson's disease. The study will recruit 25 participants who will engage in aerobic exercise followed by virtual reality sessions. Researchers will assess the impact of this combined intervention on dual task performance, gait, cognition, and quality of life through various clinical measures and questionnaires. The goal is to determine whether these interventions can work in tandem to improve cognitive and motor functions in patients.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are individuals aged 18 to 85 diagnosed with idiopathic Parkinson's disease in Hoehn and Yahr stages 1 to 3.

Not a fit: Patients with other neurological diseases, severe cardiopulmonary issues, or significant cognitive impairments may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could enhance cognitive and motor rehabilitation for patients with Parkinson's disease.

How similar studies have performed: While this approach is innovative, similar studies combining exercise and cognitive interventions have shown promise in other populations.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

1. Diagnosis of idiopathic PD (ages 18 - 85) in Hoehn and Yahr stages 1 - 3.
2. Subjects need to demonstrate a score of equal to or greater than 23 on the Mini Mental State Examination.

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Subjects with a history of other neurological diseases (i.e. stroke, multiple sclerosis).
2. Subjects with a history of severe cardiopulmonary disease, uncontrolled hypertension, orthostatic hypotension, uncontrolled diabetes, severe osteoporosis.
3. Subjects with a history of PD-specific surgical procedure such as deep brain stimulation etc.
4. Subjects with a history of head injury.
5. Subjects with a history of seizures or epilepsy,
6. Subjects who are currently pregnant
7. Subjects who use of medications that could alter corticomotor excitability or increase risk of seizure
8. Subjects with skull abnormalities, fractures, unexplained, recurring headaches.
9. Subjects who have cognitive or communication impairment that would affect participation.

Where this trial is running

San Antonio, Texas

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Parkinson's DiseaseAerobic ExerciseVirtual Reality
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.