Virtual reality walking game for neuropathic pain relief in spinal cord injury patients
Virtual Walking Therapy for Neuropathic Pain Following Incomplete Spinal Cord Injury
NA · Texas A&M University · NCT06330181
This study tests if a virtual reality walking game can help adults with spinal cord injuries and ongoing nerve pain feel better.
Quick facts
| Phase | NA |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 48 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Texas A&M University (other) |
| Locations | 1 site (College Station, Texas) |
| Trial ID | NCT06330181 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of a virtual reality walking game in alleviating neuropathic pain in adults with incomplete spinal cord injuries. The approach is based on the premise that creating a visual illusion of walking may help align sensory input with the brain's expectations, potentially reversing changes that contribute to neuropathic pain. Participants will engage in two different virtual reality games designed to stimulate walking sensations. The study focuses on individuals classified as ASIA B, C, or D, who have experienced persistent neuropathic pain for at least three months.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 18 and older with incomplete spinal cord injuries classified as ASIA B, C, or D, who have persistent neuropathic pain.
Not a fit: Patients with complete spinal cord injuries or those under 18 years of age may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this intervention could provide a novel, non-pharmacological treatment option for managing neuropathic pain in spinal cord injury patients.
How similar studies have performed: While the use of virtual reality in pain management is an emerging field, this specific approach targeting neuropathic pain in spinal cord injury patients is relatively novel.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: The study will recruit individuals with incomplete injury (American Spinal Injury Association \[ASIA\] classification B, C, or D) with lumbar, paraplegic, or low tetraplegic (C5-C7) injury. Additional criteria will include: 1. Must have persistent NP symptoms that are of daily severity of at least 4/10 for 3 or more months 2. Must endorse more than 2 items on a 7-item Spinal Cord Injury Pain Instrument, SCIPI 3. Must be 18 years of age or older 4. Must be more than one and a half years post-injury to begin study (can be screened at an earlier time for eligibility) 5. Must have mobile connectivity with usable service 6. Must be stable on pain medication for 1 or more months 7. Must be cleared on the VRWalk physical activity clearance scale 8. Must not have motion sickness that interferes with daily life 9. Must use a wheelchair at least 75% of the time Exclusion Criteria: 1. Individuals with Injury levels between C1 and C4 2. Individuals under the age of 18 3. Individuals who were injured within the past year 4. Individuals who cannot comprehend spoken English 5. Individuals who are in prison 6. Individuals who are blind 7. Individuals who experience severe motion sickness
Where this trial is running
College Station, Texas
- Texas A&M University — College Station, Texas, United States (RECRUITING)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Ami Lisenbee
- Email: sci@vrwalk.org
- Phone: 804-569-5965
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.
Conditions: Spinal Cord Injuries, Neuropathic Pain, Spinal Cord Diseases, Central Nervous System Diseases, Trauma, Nervous System, Peripheral Nervous System Diseases, Neuromuscular Diseases, Pain