Improving Heart Health in People with SCI Using Home-Based VR Gaming

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 interventional effort targets adults with spinal cord injury who are at risk for cardiometabolic disease due to physical inactivity. Participants will engage in a home-based virtual reality exercise program designed to be accessible and enjoyable. The study screens for low to moderate cardiovascular risk and requires wheelchair reliance, limited past activity, and ranged ASIA impairment. The approach emphasizes convenience, safety, and potential improvements in fitness, quality of life, and psychosocial outcomes. Lead involvement is from Drexel University with support from the U.S. Department of Defense.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

Inclusion Criteria:

* be low risk for developing a cardiovascular event during vigorous exercise according to ACSM
* be at least 18 years of age;•
* ASIA level A-D;
* wheelchair use for at least 75% of community mobility (non-ambulatory);
* report low amounts of physical activity as determined by the Physical Activity Scale for Individuals with Physical Disabilities (PASIPD). Participants whose combined scores for item 3 (moderate sport or recreation) and 4 (strenuous sport or recreation) ≤10 MET hours per week, will be considered physically inactive.

Exclusion Criteria:

* consistent or activity-exacerbated upper extremity pain of at least 4/10;
* angina or myocardial infarction within the last year, or other major barriers to upper-extremity exercise;
* inability to elevate arms above 45°,
* significant spasticity
* complete upper extremity impairment.

Where it's running

• Drexel University Health Science Building
  Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States Recruiting

Study contacts

• Study coordinator: Margaret Finley, PhD, PT
• Email: maf378@drexel.edu
• Phone: 410-746-2112

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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.