Comparing virtual reality exercise to traditional exercise for frozen shoulder
Exploring the Possibilities of Virtual Reality in Rehabilitation of Patients With Frozen Shoulder
This study tests if using virtual reality exercise can help people with frozen shoulder feel better and move their arms more easily compared to traditional exercise.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 45 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 70 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University Ghent Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Ghent) |
| Trial ID | NCT06547073 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study investigates the effectiveness of virtual reality (VR) training compared to traditional exercise for patients suffering from frozen shoulder, a condition characterized by pain and limited range of motion. It aims to analyze the 3D upper limb movement of patients during VR gaming and compare it to their unaffected side and to healthy individuals. The study will assess the impact of a single session of VR gaming versus traditional exercise on pain levels, range of motion, shoulder strength, and the overall experience of participants. The research is designed to provide insights into the potential benefits of VR technology in physical rehabilitation.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are individuals diagnosed with frozen shoulder who exhibit significant restrictions in shoulder movement and have experienced pain for at least two months.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have frozen shoulder or those with severe comorbidities affecting their ability to participate in physical activities may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could enhance rehabilitation outcomes for patients with frozen shoulder by providing a more engaging and effective treatment option.
How similar studies have performed: While the use of VR in rehabilitation is gaining traction, this specific comparison of VR training to traditional exercise in frozen shoulder patients is relatively novel.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
PATIENT GROUP (frozen shoulder Inclusion Criteria: * A diagnosis of frozen shoulder/adhesive capsulitis (by a medical doctor) both idiopathic and postoperative/posttraumatic * The participants need to have: * a passive ROM restriction (measured using goniometry) at the affected shoulder of 25% or more in at least two directions in comparison to the unaffected shoulder * an external rotation restriction at the affected shoulder of at least 50% when compared to the unaffected side * pain and restricted ROM present for at least two months, reaching a plateau or becoming worse * gradual onset of pain and stiffness * The participants are allowed to already be in therapy with a physiotherapist and do not have to stop an ongoing therapy in order to participate in the study. The reason for this is that only the short-term effect is being researched * The participants are allowed to have had an operative treatment if they still have the aforementioned restrictions Exclusion Criteria: * The presence of contra-indications to perform active shoulder movements * The presence of neurological conditions * Systemic disease (e.g. Fibromyalgia, rheumatism, muscle disease…) * The presence of visual conditions that will not allow performing VR therapy without losing balance * A pathology of the back of lower limbs which do not allow the performance of exercise in standing position * A higher risk of falling with at least one fall during the past year * Insufficient control of the Dutch language HEALTHY GROUP Exclusion criteria * shoulder pain in the last 6 months * prior shoulder surgery * fractures of the upper arm or scapula * systemic disease (e.g. Fibromyalgia, rheumatism, muscle disease…) * the presence of contra-indications to perform active shoulder movements (e.g. recent elbow surgery), balance disorders (e.g. benign paroxysmal positional vertigo), visual disorders (e.g. severe reduced vision or visual acuity) * any pathology in the back/lower limbs that prevents standing exercises from being performed * increased risk of falls with at least one fall incident in the past year * insufficient knowledge of the Dutch language.
Where this trial is running
Ghent
- Ghent University — Ghent, Belgium (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Annelies Maenhout, PhD
- Email: annelies.maenhout@ugent.be
- Phone: 0032473806159
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.