Using virtual reality for self-rehabilitation of facial paralysis

Evaluation of the Effectiveness of Virtual Reality Self-rehabilitation in the Treatment of Facial Paralysis and Synkinesis

Not applicable Interventional Centre Hospitalier Universitaire, Amiens · NCT05547152

This study tests whether using virtual reality can help people with recent facial paralysis improve their recovery through fun exercises and activities.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment100 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorCentre Hospitalier Universitaire, Amiens Academic / other
Locations1 site (Amiens, Picardie)
Trial IDNCT05547152 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study evaluates the effectiveness of virtual reality as a self-rehabilitation tool for patients suffering from peripheral facial palsy and associated synkinesis. It aims to improve functional recovery through interventions that include massages, motor stimulation, stretching, and virtual reality exercises. The study targets patients who have experienced recent onset facial palsy and assesses their progress over time. By utilizing innovative technology, the study seeks to enhance traditional rehabilitation methods and provide a more engaging recovery experience.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 18 and older with recent onset peripheral facial palsy of grade III or higher.

Not a fit: Patients with central facial palsy, those with chronic facial palsy, or those who have undergone certain prior treatments may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly improve recovery outcomes and quality of life for patients with facial paralysis.

How similar studies have performed: While the use of virtual reality in rehabilitation is an emerging field, similar studies have shown promising results in enhancing recovery in various conditions, indicating potential for success in this novel application.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Patient with recent onset peripheral facial palsy (≤ 12 months).
* Patient with peripheral facial palsy of grade ≥ III on the House \& Brackmann score
* Patient of legal age (≥ 18 years)
* Patient with appropriate information and informed consent

Exclusion Criteria:

* Patient with central facial palsy
* Patient with peripheral facial palsy of \> 12 months onset
* Patient with peripheral facial palsy of grade \< III House \& Brackmann score
* Patient who has previously undergone palliative surgery
* Patient undergoing a botulinum toxin injection protocol
* Patients benefiting from enhanced protection, i.e. minors, persons deprived of their liberty by a judicial or administrative decision, persons staying in a health or social institution, adults under legal protection, pregnant or breast-feeding women and patients in emergency situations
* Patients who have not provided informed consent
* Patients with cognitive disorders that do not allow them to follow the proposed self-education protocol
* Blind or visually impaired patients (visual acuity of the better eye after correction ≤ 4/10)

Where this trial is running

Amiens, Picardie

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Peripheral Facial PalsyRehabilitationVirtual Realityrehabilitationvirtual reality
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.