Using computer gaming to improve arm use in Rett syndrome
Assessing the Effectiveness of Customized Computer Activities on Reducing Stereotypies and Improving Independent Upper Extremity Motor Skills in Persons with Rett Syndrome
This study is testing if playing modified virtual reality games can help people with Rett syndrome use their arms and hands better while also improving their quality of life.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 10 (estimated) |
| Ages | 4 Years to 60 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Georgetown University Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Washington D.C., District of Columbia) |
| Trial ID | NCT05012475 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study employs a tele-research approach to engage participants with Rett syndrome in modified virtual reality gaming activities. The primary goal is to reduce stereotypical hand movements and enhance independent arm and hand use, while also aiming to improve overall quality of life. Participants will wear brightly colored wristbands that track their arm movements, which will be used to control the gaming activities. The intervention will occur three times a week for approximately 12 weeks, with assessments conducted at five intervals to measure progress in reaching abilities and reduction of stereotypies.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are individuals diagnosed with Rett syndrome who can understand cause and effect and have the functional range of motion in their arms to participate in the gaming activities.
Not a fit: Patients with competing orthopedic or neuromuscular diagnoses that affect shoulder movements may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this intervention could significantly enhance the functional use of arms and hands in individuals with Rett syndrome, leading to improved daily living activities.
How similar studies have performed: While the approach of using virtual reality gaming for therapeutic purposes is gaining traction, this specific application in Rett syndrome is novel and has not been extensively tested in prior studies.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Rett syndrome, * Understanding of cause and effect, * Functional range of motion of arms to complete the movements needed to control the games. Exclusion Criteria: * no competing orthopedic or neuromuscular diagnosis that impacts shoulder movements
Where this trial is running
Washington D.C., District of Columbia
- Georgetown University School of Medicine — Washington D.C., District of Columbia, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Pamela S Diener, PhD, MS, OT/L
- Email: psd23@georgetown.edu
- Phone: 2403811763
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.