Virtual reality-assisted dual-task training to boost muscle oxygenation in COPD
Investigation of the Effects of Virtual Reality-Assisted Dual Task Training on Cerebral, Peripheral, and Respiratory Muscle Oxygenation in Patients With Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
We will test whether virtual reality-assisted exercises that combine thinking and moving can improve muscle oxygen levels in people with moderate COPD (GOLD stage 2-3).
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 30 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 70 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Istinye University Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Istanbul) |
| Trial ID | NCT07015216 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This is an interventional comparison of a virtual reality-assisted dual-task training program versus a conventional therapy program in ambulatory patients with COPD GOLD stage 2 or 3. Participants who meet cognitive and safety criteria (MMSE ≥ 23, no major cardiovascular, vestibular, visual, or orthopedic contraindications) will undergo supervised training and physiological monitoring. The main focus is on muscle oxygenation and related exercise and cognitive-motor measures, with prefrontal cortex activity and exercise tolerance considered in the rationale. The study is conducted in person at Istinye University in Istanbul.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are ambulatory adults with COPD GOLD stage 2 or 3 who have adequate cognition (MMSE ≥ 23), no major visual, vestibular, orthopedic, or cardiovascular contraindications, and are not in an acute exacerbation.
Not a fit: People with very severe COPD (e.g., GOLD stage 4), significant cognitive impairment, active cardiovascular disease, vestibular or visual problems, ongoing acute exacerbation, or other conditions that prevent exercise are unlikely to benefit or be eligible.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, it could improve muscle oxygenation, exercise tolerance, and daily functioning for people with moderate COPD.
How similar studies have performed: Some preliminary and pilot work shows dual-task and VR-based rehabilitation can help gait, balance, and cognitive-motor function, but evidence specifically in COPD is limited and mixed.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Diagnosis of COPD stage 2 or 3 according to GOLD classification * No orthopedic and/or neuromuscular conditions that would interfere with dual-task training * Ability to ambulate * Adequate cognitive level to participate in the training (Mini Mental State Examination score ≥ 23) * Voluntary participation Exclusion Criteria: * Presence of vestibular problems that would interfere with virtual reality applications * Visual impairments * Any medical condition contraindicating exercise participation * Being in an acute exacerbation period * Having an active infection * Diagnosis of cancer * Known cardiovascular disease
Where this trial is running
Istanbul
- Istınye University, Istanbul, — Istanbul, Turkey (Türkiye) (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Berrak VARHAN Professor, Dr, PT
- Email: berrak.varhan@istinye.edu.tr
- Phone: 0850 283 6000
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.