Using a humanoid robot and virtual reality games to help children with cerebral palsy improve arm function

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 project aims to enhance arm function in children with cerebral palsy (CP) through a home-based intervention using a humanoid robot combined with virtual reality games. The THRIVE system is designed to provide a motivating and tailored upper-extremity exercise program that encourages children to engage in repetitive movements necessary for improvement. By utilizing instant feedback and interactive play, the system seeks to increase compliance and motivation for home exercises. The study will evaluate the effectiveness of this innovative approach in improving arm function among participants aged 5 to 21 years with spastic CP.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

Inclusion Criteria:

1. Participants are between the ages of 5 and 21 years;
2. diagnosed with spastic CP;
3. have a manual ability classification system (MACs) level I-III;
4. able to sit with trunk supported;
5. are able to reach forward for more than half of their arm length;
6. are able to comprehend and complete a three-steps commands;
7. are able to see a TV screen (with or without corrected vision); and
8. their primary caregiver is willing to follow the desired intervention dosing and all evaluation measurements.

Exclusion Criteria:

1. they have received surgery or botulinum toxin type A injection in the training arm within the preceding 4 months or are scheduled to receive it during the planned intervention period, or
2. if they have a severe attention deficit or uncontrolled epilepsy, which may possibly be triggered by the light or sound of the video games.

Where it's running

• Department of Physical Therapy, Georgia State University
  Atlanta, Georgia, United States Recruiting

Study contacts

• Study coordinator: Yuping Chen, ScD, PT
• Email: ypchen@gsu.edu
• Phone: 404-413-1256

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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.