Virtual reality treadmill training for people with traumatic brain injury

Virtual Reality Treadmill Training in Individuals with Traumatic Brain Injur : a Pilot Study

Not applicable Interventional NYU Langone Health · NCT05721209

This study is testing if virtual reality treadmill training can help improve balance and mobility in people with traumatic brain injury compared to regular treadmill training.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment20 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 90 Years
SexAll
SponsorNYU Langone Health Academic / other
Locations1 site (New York, New York)
Trial IDNCT05721209 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This pilot study investigates the feasibility of using virtual reality treadmill training to improve mobility and balance in individuals with traumatic brain injury (TBI). Participants will be divided into two age groups and randomized into either a virtual reality training group with feedback or a control group using traditional treadmill training. The study aims to gather preliminary data on the effects of this intervention on various factors such as fall risk and physical activity levels. The findings will also help inform the design of larger clinical trials in the future.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 18 to 90 who have experienced a non-penetrating TBI and have balance deficits or a history of falls.

Not a fit: Patients with severe cardiac disease, uncontrolled seizure disorders, or significant cognitive impairments may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this intervention could enhance mobility and reduce fall risk in individuals with traumatic brain injury.

How similar studies have performed: While this approach is innovative, similar studies exploring virtual reality in rehabilitation have shown promising results, suggesting potential for success.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

1. 18 to 90 years old
2. diagnosed with a non-penetrating TBI
3. at least 12 months post most recent injury
4. self-reported balance deficits and fear of falls or at least 2 falls in the last one year
5. Able to understand and speak English language to respond, understand and comply with study procedures throughout the 10-week study period and fill out the study questionnaires in English
6. Able to walk with minimal assistance or less (with bracing and assistive devices as needed)

Exclusion Criteria:

1. history of severe cardiac disease
2. neuromuscular or neurological pathologies other than TBI that limit study participation
3. uncontrolled seizure disorder
4. weight greater than 135 kg or less than 25 kg
5. height greater than 6' 2''
6. severe cognitive, visual or hearing impairment where the patient is not able to follow the study instructions
7. open skin lesion or bandage in the area of C-Mill harness contact

Where this trial is running

New York, New York

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 Traumatic Brain Injury
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.