Using virtual reality to teach relaxation techniques for kids with headaches
Official title: Assessment of the Effectiveness of Virtual Reality as a Learning Tool for Relaxation Techniques in Reducing Pediatric Migraines and Tension Type Headache
Run by University of Liege · NCT06921109 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing if virtual reality can help kids with chronic headaches learn relaxation techniques to feel better and have fewer headaches.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 8 Years to 15 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 60 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | University of Liege Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Sart Tilman, Liege) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | December 13, 2024 |
| Main results expected | December 31, 2027 |
| Study ends | December 31, 2027 |
| Registry record updated | April 10, 2025 |
| Trial ID | NCT06921109 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates are children with a history of headaches for at least six months or diagnosed with migraines or chronic tension-type headaches.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with epilepsy disorders may not benefit from this study.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This interventional study evaluates the effectiveness of virtual reality as a tool for teaching relaxation techniques to reduce chronic headaches in children. The approach involves using virtual reality alongside a biofeedback device to help children practice deep breathing and develop relaxation skills. The study aims to determine if this method can improve self-efficacy and reduce headache frequency and intensity both immediately after the intervention and two months later. Additionally, it seeks to assess the impact on negative pain perceptions and pain catastrophizing.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this intervention could provide children with effective tools to manage and reduce their headache symptoms.
How similar studies have gone: Other studies have shown promise in using virtual reality for therapeutic interventions, suggesting potential success for this approach.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Having a history of headaches for at least 6 months, or having been diagnosed with migraines and/or chronic tension-type headaches according to the criteria of the International Headache Society (IHS) by a pediatric neurologist. Exclusion Criteria: * having an epilepsy disorder
Where it's running
-
University of Liege
Sart Tilman, Liege, Belgium Recruiting
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Romane Michaux, PhD Student
- Email: romane.michaux@uliege.be
- Phone: +32 471 61 03 28
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.