Comparing Virtual Reality and Strength Training for Children with Cerebral Palsy

Is this trial a fit for you?

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

What this trial studies

This pilot study investigates the effects of virtual reality (VR) and functional strength training (FST) on improving arm function in children with cerebral palsy (CP). Forty children aged 5-17 with spastic CP will be recruited and randomly assigned to either VR or FST for six weeks, participating three times a week. The study employs a sequential multiple assignment randomized trial (SMART) design to adapt interventions based on individual responses, aiming to maximize clinical benefits. The goal is to explore innovative approaches to enhance arm function in this population.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

Inclusion Criteria:

* children are between ages 5-17 years
* diagnosed with CP;
* have a Manual ability classification system (MACs) level I-III;
* able to sit with trunk supported;
* are able to reach forward for more than half of their arm length;
* are able to comprehend a 3-step command;
* are able to see video screen (with or without corrected vision); and
* their primary caregiver is willing to follow the desired intervention 'dosing' and all evaluation measurements.

Exclusion Criteria:

* children have received surgery or botulinum toxin type A injection in the training arm within the preceding 4 months or are scheduled to receive it during the planned study period,
* if children have a severe attention deficit or uncontrolled epilepsy which may possibly be triggered by the light or sound of the video games.

Where it's running

• Department of Physical Therapy, Georgia State University
  Atlanta, Georgia, United States Recruiting

Study contacts

• Principal investigator: Yuping Chen, ScD, PT — Department of Physical Therapy, Georgia State University
• Study coordinator: Yuping Chen, ScD, PT
• Email: ypchen@gsu.edu
• Phone: 1-404-413-1256

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How to take part

1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.