Using virtual reality to improve balance in adolescents after scoliosis surgery

Impact of Virtual Reality on the Postoperative Balance of Adolescents With Idiopathic Scoliosis

Not applicable Interventional Federal University of Health Science of Porto Alegre · NCT05950100

This study is testing if using virtual reality can help teenagers recover better and improve their balance after having surgery for scoliosis.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment56 (estimated)
Ages11 Years to 18 Years
SexAll
SponsorFederal University of Health Science of Porto Alegre Academic / other
Locations1 site (Porto Alegre, Rio Grande Do Sul)
Trial IDNCT05950100 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This clinical trial evaluates the effects of immersive virtual reality on the balance and functionality of adolescents with idiopathic scoliosis following spinal correction surgery. Participants will be randomly assigned to either a virtual reality group or a control group, with assessments focusing on pain, balance, length of hospital stay, functionality, and quality of life. The study aims to determine if virtual reality can enhance recovery outcomes and reduce hospitalization time for these patients.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are adolescents aged 11 to 18 years who have been diagnosed with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis and are in the postoperative period following spine correction surgery.

Not a fit: Patients with moderate to severe cognitive impairment or other physical conditions that limit trunk movements may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly improve balance and quality of life for adolescents recovering from scoliosis surgery.

How similar studies have performed: While the use of virtual reality in rehabilitation is gaining traction, this specific application for postoperative balance in scoliosis patients is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* individuals of both sexes;
* aged between 11 and 18 years;
* diagnosed with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) and in the postoperative period of spine correction surgery.

Exclusion Criteria:

* moderate to severe cognitive impairment;
* difficulty understanding simple orders;
* other physical conditions that limit trunk movements, orthostasis and/or cause pain;
* medical contraindication.

Where this trial is running

Porto Alegre, Rio Grande Do Sul

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 Scoliosis IdiopathicVirtual RealityPostural BalanceScoliosisPediatricsPostoperative PeriodRehabilitationPhysical Therapy Modalities
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.