Could a Brain-Zapping headset and VR help kids with down syndrome move better?
NCT ID NCT07385066
First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026
Summary
This study tests whether combining a gentle brain-stimulation technique (tDCS) with virtual-reality exercises can improve movement, balance, and thinking skills in children with Down syndrome. Thirty kids aged 6 to 12 will either receive this new combo or standard physical therapy. Researchers will measure changes in walking, balance, reasoning, and caregiver strain.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only, not medical advice or a prediction.
- Active substance
- transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) combined with virtual reality
- What this could lead to
- If it works, this could point toward a new, non-invasive way to boost motor and cognitive function in children with Down syndrome.
- What could go wrong
- This is a small, early-stage trial with only 30 children, so results may not apply to everyone. The combination therapy is experimental and may not outperform standard physical therapy.
This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.
Study facts
What this study's own registry entry says, in plain language.
- Phase
-
Not a phased trial
Phase numbers describe drug development. The registry uses this when they do not apply, as it does for trials of devices, procedures or behaviour changes, and for observational studies.
- Participants
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30 people
The number who actually took part.
- Started
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Apr 2025
- Expected to finish
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Apr 2027
An estimate. End dates often move.
- Lead sponsor
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Other sponsor
The registry's catch-all category, for sponsors it does not file as a company, a government agency, or a research network.
Who can take part
This study's own entry requirements. Only the study team can say for certain whether you qualify.
- Ages
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6 to 12 years
- Sex
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Anyone
- Healthy volunteers
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Not accepted
This study is not open to healthy volunteers. The entry requirements below say who it is open to.
Show the full entry requirements Hide the full entry requirements
Copied word for word from the study's registry entry, so the wording is the study team's rather than ours.
Inclusion Criteria: * Children aged 6-12 years diagnosed with Down syndrome by a pediatrician. * Compromised gross motor performance in standing, walking, running, or jumping domains of the Gross Motor Function Measure (GMFM). * Stable medical and neurological status. * Parental/guardian informed consent and cooperation. * Documented balance difficulties. * Ability to follow simple instructions in Urdu or locally spoken language. * Regular accessibility to the intervention site. Exclusion Criteria: * Neurological conditions other than Down syndrome. * Red flag conditions such as tumors, fractures, metabolic diseases, or dislocations. * Visual, cardiopulmonary, or severe musculoskeletal impairments requiring surgical management. * Recent surgery in the past 12 months. * Seizure history or sensitivity to electrical stimulation. * Presence of metal implants or hearing aids. * Tactile or sensory processing issues that prevent participation in therapy.
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Conditions
The condition(s) this trial relates to.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
Locations
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Superior University CRC
Lahore, Punjab Province, Pakistan
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Other studies related to the condition(s) this trial covers.
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