Using the Ghostly app for strength training in hospitalized patients
Strength Training in Hospitalized Patients Using the Ghostly App: a Feasibility Study
This study is testing if using the Ghostly app for strength training can help hospitalized patients, like those recovering from a stroke, COVID-19, or who are frail, get stronger during their rehabilitation.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 45 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Vrije Universiteit Brussel Academic / other |
| Locations | 2 sites (Jette, Brussels Hoofdstedelijk Gewest and 1 other locations) |
| Trial ID | NCT05258500 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This feasibility study evaluates the effectiveness of the Ghostly app in enhancing rehabilitation for hospitalized patients, specifically targeting stroke patients, frail elderly individuals, and those recovering from COVID-19. The study involves three randomized controlled trials that assess strength gains through a strength training program integrated into the app, which utilizes electromyography to measure muscle contractions. Participants will be divided into groups receiving either the Ghostly app, conventional therapy, or blood flow restriction during training. The app aims to provide a stimulating environment for muscle training by allowing users to control a character through their muscle contractions.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates include hospitalized individuals who are recovering from stroke, are elderly and frail, or are COVID-19 survivors with muscle weakness.
Not a fit: Patients with other disabilities, those unable to understand instructions, or those with metal implants or implanted electrical devices may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly improve rehabilitation outcomes and strength recovery for patients with muscle weakness.
How similar studies have performed: While the use of gaming apps for rehabilitation is a novel approach, similar studies have shown promise in enhancing patient engagement and outcomes in physical therapy.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria Stroke population: * Hospitalized * Subacute/acute stroke * Score of 19 or lower on the knee and hip movement test of the Motricity Index Exclusion Criteria Stroke population: * Unable to understand the instructions * Other disabilities (muscular, orthopedic, ...) * Pregnancy * Metal implants * Implanted electrical devices Inclusion Criteria Elderly: * Hospitalized * 65+ yrs * 14 or less repetitions on the 30 seconds sit-to-stand test Exclusion Criteria Elderly: * Unable to understand the instructions * Other disabilities (muscular, orthopedic, ...) * Metal implants * Implanted electrical devices Inclusion Criteria COVID-19/ICU: * Hospitalized * Recovering from COVID-19 or ICU patient * score of 2 or less for manual muscle testing of the quadriceps muscle in both legs Exclusion Criteria COVID-19/ICU: * Unable to understand the instructions * Other disabilities (muscular, orthopedic, ...) * Pregnancy * Metal implants * Implanted electrical devices
Where this trial is running
Jette, Brussels Hoofdstedelijk Gewest and 1 other locations
- Vrije Universiteit Brussel — Jette, Brussels Hoofdstedelijk Gewest, Belgium (Recruiting)
- University Hospital Brussels — Brussels, Belgium (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Eva Swinnen, Prof. Ph.D — Vrije Universiteit Brussel
- Study coordinator: Ruben Debeuf
- Email: ruben.debeuf@vub.be
- Phone: 0032478821658
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.