Virtual reality exercise for chronic kidney disease patients during hemodialysis

Effect of Physical Exercise Performed Through Virtual Reality Games on the Modulation of Heart Rate Variability in Chronic Renal Patients During Hemodialysis.

Not applicable Interventional University of Sao Paulo · NCT06038383

This study tests if playing virtual reality games while exercising can help people with chronic kidney disease feel better during their hemodialysis treatments compared to regular bike exercises.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment24 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 70 Years
SexAll
SponsorUniversity of Sao Paulo Academic / other
Locations1 site (São Paulo)
Trial IDNCT06038383 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This clinical trial investigates the effects of physical exercise through virtual reality games on patients with chronic renal insufficiency undergoing hemodialysis. It compares heart rate variability and quality of life outcomes between patients engaging in virtual reality exercises and those participating in conventional physical exercise on a stationary bike. The study employs a longitudinal crossover design, where participants will switch between the two exercise modalities after a washout period. The goal is to determine if virtual reality can enhance the physical activity experience and improve health metrics during treatment.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates include adults over 18 with chronic renal insufficiency requiring hemodialysis and who can safely participate in physical exercise.

Not a fit: Patients with acute cardiovascular issues or those experiencing persistent pain and fatigue may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly enhance the quality of life and physical health of chronic kidney disease patients undergoing hemodialysis.

How similar studies have performed: While the use of virtual reality in rehabilitation is gaining traction, this specific approach for chronic kidney disease patients during hemodialysis is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Patients with diagnosed chronic renal insufficiency requiring hemodialysis at any classification level.
* Age over 18 years.
* Possession of medical clearance for participating in physical exercise.
* Ability for lower limb movement without affecting dialysis treatment.

Exclusion Criteria:

* Acute use of medications that affect the cardiovascular system and/or alter the function of the nervous system, unless they are part of the disease treatment protocol and are part of the patient's routine.
* Reports of persistent pain and fatigue arising after the start of exercise training.
* Changes in the type of renal treatment during the protocol application period.
* Absence from three consecutive exercise training sessions.

Where this trial is running

São Paulo

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 Renal Insufficiency, Chronichemodialysisphysical exercisevirtual realityRenal Insufficiencyheart rate variability
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.