Virtual reality to boost neuroplasticity in children and adolescents

Is this trial a fit for you?

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

What this trial studies

The study enrolls children and adolescents aged 8–18 with diagnoses of ADHD, ASD, or cerebral palsy and delivers immersive virtual reality (IVR) rehabilitation using the CAREN platform alongside conventional interventions. Participants complete a course of IVR sessions designed to target cognitive, motor, and social skills with baseline and follow-up assessments of attention, motor function, social interaction, and quality of life. Outcomes from the IVR program will be compared with standard rehabilitation approaches to see if IVR yields greater engagement and broader functional gains. Safety, tolerability, and the feasibility of integrating IVR into pediatric rehabilitation are also recorded.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

Inclusion Criteria:

* Children and adolescents aged 8 to 18 years
* Diagnosis of one of the following neurodevelopmental disorders:

  * Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
  * Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
  * Cerebral Palsy (CP)
* Ability to understand and comply with instructions for the intervention
* Adequate cognitive, motor, and social skills to participate in the rehabilitation program
* Informed consent obtained from a parent or legal guardian

Exclusion Criteria:

* Children and adolescents younger than 8 or older than 18 years
* Severe cognitive impairments or intellectual disabilities that prevent participation in the rehabilitation program
* Diagnosis of conditions not related to the target neurodevelopmental disorders, such as:

  * Major psychiatric disorders (e.g., severe depression, schizophrenia)
  * Neurological disorders not included in the study (e.g., epilepsy)
* Severe motor impairments that prevent interaction with the virtual reality platform
* Uncontrolled medical conditions (e.g., severe cardiovascular, respiratory, or endocrine diseases)
* Lack of informed consent from a parent or legal guardian
* Participation in another intervention or study that may interfere with the rehabilitation program
* Behavioral issues or extreme anxiety that make it impossible to follow instructions or interact with the virtual reality system

Where it's running

• IRCCS Neurolesi Bonino Pulejo
  Messina, Messina, Italy Recruiting

Study contacts

• Study coordinator: Francesca Cucinotta
• Email: francesca.cucinotta@irccsme.it
• Phone: 09060128256

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How to take part

1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.