Goal-driven extended reality to help lower-limb rehabilitation
Feasibility and Effectiveness of Goal Driven Extended Reality for Lower Limb Rehabilitation: A Pilot Study
This pilot tests whether adding extended reality (XR) to Vector-based gait therapy helps adults in inpatient lower-limb rehab stay motivated and regain walking ability faster.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 24 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University at Albany Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Schenectady, New York) |
| Trial ID | NCT07043101 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This is a pilot interventional program that adds Extended Reality (XR) exercises to conventional Vector Gait and Safety System training for lower limb rehabilitation in an inpatient setting. Participants receive goal-driven XR experiences alongside their usual physical therapy, with therapists using the system to track progress and engagement. The study focuses on feasibility and preliminary effectiveness, measuring patient motivation, therapy participation, and walking-related function over the inpatient course. Results will inform whether XR can be integrated into standard inpatient gait rehabilitation and justify larger trials.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Adults aged 18 or older who are inpatients at Sunnyview Rehabilitation Hospital and are receiving or scheduled to receive Vector-based gait training, able to follow two-step commands and who were ambulatory before their current injury are the ideal candidates.
Not a fit: Patients who cannot use the Vector (for example due to weight limits, external halo support, severe osteoporosis, uncontrolled medical conditions, or unstable fractures), those with vertigo or vision problems that rule out MR use, those unable to follow two-step commands, or those who were not ambulatory before the injury are unlikely to benefit or be eligible.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, XR could boost motivation and therapy participation and potentially shorten inpatient recovery time for patients working to regain walking ability.
How similar studies have performed: Other small studies of VR/AR/XR in gait and lower-limb rehab have shown promising but preliminary improvements in motivation and function, so this application is promising but still early-stage.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Inpatient at Sunnyview Rehabilitation Hospital * Receiving or scheduled to receive Vector-based gait training therapy * At least 18 years of age at the time of enrollment Exclusion Criteria * Unable to use the Vector due to contraindications for Vector use (\>500 lb or \<30 lb), external halo neck support, severe osteoporosis, uncontrolled diabetes, uncontrolled hypertension, unstable fractures) * Unable to follow 2 step commands * Vertigo or vision abnormalities contraindicated for MR use * Unable to ambulate prior to current injury * In the judgment of the clinician, is not a good fit for the study
Where this trial is running
Schenectady, New York
- Sunnyview Rehabilitation Hospital — Schenectady, New York, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Jeremy Varghese
- Email: jvarghese2@albany.edu
- Phone: 3124204491
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.