Video games as therapy: VR shows promise for children with muscle disorders
NCT ID NCT03689660
First seen Jun 26, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time
Summary
This study tested whether virtual reality (using Xbox Kinect) or biofeedback training could improve motor function and balance in 24 children with neuromuscular diseases like Duchenne muscular dystrophy and spinal muscular atrophy. Participants were split into three groups: VR training, biofeedback, or standard rehab. The goal was to see if these high-tech approaches are feasible and effective for helping kids move better.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only, not medical advice or a prediction.
- Active substance
- Virtual reality training using Xbox Kinect, biofeedback training, and conventional rehabilitation
- What this could lead to
- If successful, virtual reality or biofeedback could offer fun, engaging ways to help children with neuromuscular diseases improve their movement and balance.
- What could go wrong
- This is a small, early-stage study with only 24 participants. Results may not apply to all children, and the benefits may be modest or not last long.
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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24 people
The number who actually took part.
- Started
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Feb 2019
- Finished
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May 2023
- 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 18 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: * Volunteer to participate in the study * Being diagnosed with the neuromuscular disease * No other systemic or neurological disease * No significant visual or auditory loss * Continuation of ambulation (10 m walking independently) * Be able to understand simple commands Exclusion Criteria: * Performing a drug change at 3 months before treatment or during treatment which may affect muscle strength * Acute inflammation in the musculoskeletal system * Finding any orthopedic problem that prevents activities during the research
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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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Dokuz Eylul University
Izmir, Balcova, 35340, Turkey (Türkiye)
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