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The Effect of Virtual Reality Applications on Upper Extremity Functions in Patients With Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy
Sponsor: Istanbul University
Summary
This study aims to evaluate the effects of fully immersive virtual reality (VR) applications on upper extremity (UE) functions in individuals diagnosed with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD). DMD is a progressive neuromuscular disorder that leads to muscle weakness and loss of function, including the upper limbs, which are essential for daily activities and independence. In this randomized controlled trial, 36 participants with DMD will be divided into two groups: a control group receiving conventional physiotherapy and an intervention group receiving the same physiotherapy program (excluding upper extremity exercises) combined with VR-based exercises. The VR games will be designed specifically to improve shoulder, elbow, wrist, and hand functions and will be delivered using Meta Quest 3 headsets with hand-tracking capabilities. Both groups will receive therapy twice a week for 8 weeks. Assessments will be conducted before and after the intervention, and at follow-up, using validated tools to measure UE function, grip strength, fine motor skills, trunk control, fatigue, quality of life, and participation in daily activities. The study aims to explore innovative rehabilitation strategies for DMD and contribute to improving the independence and quality of life of affected individuals.
Key Details
Gender
MALE
Age Range
7 Years - 18 Years
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Enrollment
36
Start Date
2025-08-15
Completion Date
2027-08-15
Last Updated
2025-06-26
Healthy Volunteers
No
Interventions
Virtual Reality + Conventional Physiotherapy
This intervention involves the use of fully immersive virtual reality (VR) applications delivered through the Meta Quest 3 headset, integrated with hand-tracking technology. Participants engage in three custom-designed VR games aimed at improving shoulder, elbow, wrist, and hand functions. The games are tailored to individual functional levels and include progressive difficulty. Sessions are conducted twice per week for 8 weeks, each lasting approximately 40 minutes, under the supervision of a physiotherapist. This intervention is combined with conventional physiotherapy (excluding functional upper extremity exercises).
Conventional Physiotherapy
This intervention consists of a standard physiotherapy program for individuals with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy. It includes aerobic exercises, strengthening exercises, stretching routines, postural training, respiratory exercises, and functional upper extremity exercises. The sessions are delivered by a physiotherapist twice weekly for 8 weeks, with each session lasting approximately 40 minutes.