Comparing virtual reality training to in-person boxing for Parkinson's patients
A Crossover Pilot Study of a Novel Virtual Reality Task in Parkinson's Disease Compared to a Group In-Person Rock Steady Boxing Program; Task Performance, Cognitive Outcomes, Perceptions, and Comparisons
This study tests whether virtual reality boxing training can help people with Parkinson's disease just as much as traditional in-person boxing classes.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 6 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | New York Institute of Technology Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Old Westbury, New York) |
| Trial ID | NCT05859308 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study aims to evaluate the effects of a virtual reality physical program against a traditional in-person Rock Steady Boxing program for individuals with Parkinson's disease. Participants will engage in their regular boxing sessions while also incorporating virtual reality training over a three-week period. The study will involve cognitive assessments and intrinsic motivation evaluations to measure the impact of both interventions. Participants will complete various visits that include demographic information, cognitive tests, and training sessions.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are individuals aged 18 and older who have been diagnosed with Parkinson's disease and are currently participating in Rock Steady Boxing.
Not a fit: Patients with a history of movement-induced vertigo or other cognitive or movement disorders may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could provide an innovative and engaging alternative to traditional physical therapy for patients with Parkinson's disease.
How similar studies have performed: While the use of virtual reality in rehabilitation is gaining traction, this specific comparison with Rock Steady Boxing is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion criteria: * Diagnosed with Parkinson's disease * Age 18+ years * Currently involved in rock steady boxing * Willing to participate 2-3 days/week Exclusion criteria: * Known history of movement-induced vertigo * Other cognitive or movement disorders
Where this trial is running
Old Westbury, New York
- Nyit — Old Westbury, New York, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Amber Sousa, PhD — Nyit
- Study coordinator: Amber Sousa, PhD
- Email: asousa@nyit.edu
- Phone: 516-686-7698
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.