Virtual reality rehabilitation for people with rheumatic diseases affecting the hands

The Effects of Technological Based Rehabilitation on Individuals With Rheumatic Disease With Hand Involvement

NA · Akdeniz University · NCT06385574

This study tests if virtual reality exercises can help people with rheumatic diseases in their hands improve their movement and strength better than regular therapy.

Quick facts

PhaseNA
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment45 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 64 Years
SexAll
SponsorAkdeniz University (other)
Locations1 site (Antalya, Konyaaltı)
Trial IDNCT06385574 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study examines the effects of technology-based rehabilitation using a Leap Motion Controller on individuals with rheumatic diseases that affect hand functionality. Participants will be randomly assigned to one of three groups: one receiving virtual reality exercises, another undergoing conventional physiotherapist-guided rehabilitation, and a control group continuing their routine care. The interventions will last for 8 weeks, with evaluations of joint range of motion, grip strength, and overall functionality conducted before and after the program. The goal is to determine the effectiveness of virtual reality therapy compared to traditional rehabilitation methods.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 18 and older diagnosed with a rheumatic disease involving hand joints.

Not a fit: Patients with additional orthopedic or neurological conditions affecting hand function may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could enhance hand functionality and quality of life for patients with rheumatic diseases.

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

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Having been diagnosed with a rheumatic disease that meets the latest criteria by a rheumatologist
* Involvement in hand joints (pain, swelling, tenderness)
* Being 18 years or older
* Being on stable drug treatment for the last 6 months
* Having sufficient cooperation to participate in the study
* Volunteering to participate in the study

Exclusion Criteria:

* Not volunteering to participate in the study
* Having difficulty in cooperating at work
* Having an additional orthopedic and/or neurological disease that will affect hand functions

Where this trial is running

Antalya, Konyaaltı

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.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Rheumatic Diseases, Hand Rheumatism, Virtual Reality Therapy, rheumatic diseases, hand exercises, leap motion, functionality

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.