Static balance testing in children with autism using a virtual reality system
Quantitative Assessment of Static Balance in Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder Using VRRS
This project tests whether a virtual reality rehabilitation system can measure static balance differences in children with autism aged 6–10.
Quick facts
| Study type | Observational |
|---|---|
| Enrollment | 50 (estimated) |
| Ages | 6 Years to 13 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Istituto per la Ricerca e l'Innovazione Biomedica Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Messina) |
| Trial ID | NCT07403396 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This observational project enrolled 50 children with autism (ages 6–10, ten per age year) and measured static postural control using a Virtual Reality Rehabilitation System (VRRS) together with a stabilometric balance platform. Thirteen quantitative balance parameters were recorded, including Mean Distance Center of Pressure (MD_COP), Root Mean Square of Distance (RMS), Total Excursion (ESC), Velocity (VEL), and Sway area (SWAY). Standardized IQ testing was performed to record cognitive functioning and explore correlations between balance metrics and cognitive scores. All data were stored in a dedicated database for later analysis of patterns and relationships.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Children aged 6–10 with a diagnosis of autism and an IQ of 60 or higher, without other clinical motor deficits, were ideal candidates for this project.
Not a fit: Children with motor problems due to another clinical condition, those with IQ below 60, or those outside the 6–10 age range are unlikely to benefit from this specific measurement-focused project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the approach could give clinicians precise, objective balance measurements to help identify deficits and personalize motor therapies for children with autism.
How similar studies have performed: Previous work has used VR and stabilometric systems to measure or train balance in neurodevelopmental conditions with promising but still limited and variable results.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Diagnosis of Autism; * QI ≥ 60 Exclusion Criteria: * Motor deficits due to another clinical condition
Where this trial is running
Messina
- Italy Institute for Biomedical Research and Innovation (IRIB) - National Research Council (CNR) — Messina, Italy (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Flavia Marino — Italy Institute for Biomedical Research and Innovation (IRIB) - National Research Council (CNR) Messina, Italy, 98164
- Study coordinator: Chiara Failla
- Email: chiara.failla@irib.cnr.it
- Phone: +393921985644
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.