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Virtual Reality-Based vs Traditional Physiotherapy for Balance, Frailty, and Fall Prevention in Adults Aged 45 Years and Older
Sponsor: Umm Al-Qura University
Summary
This study will compare two exercise-based rehabilitation programs to improve balance and reduce fall risk in adults aged 45 years and older who have had at least one fall in the past year or have balance problems. Participants will be assigned to one of two groups: (1) a virtual reality (VR) exercise program using the PABLO system, or (2) a traditional physiotherapy program based on the Otago approach. Both programs will include balance training, strength/power exercises, aerobic activity, and flexibility. The program will last 12 weeks, with two supervised sessions per week (about 30 minutes each). Assessments will be completed at the start of the study and again after 12 weeks. The main outcomes include frailty status, number of falls, mobility (Timed Up and Go test), and balance (Berg Balance Scale). Additional outcomes include grip strength, quality of life (SF-12), and program adherence and safety. The study will help determine whether VR-based rehabilitation improves participation and outcomes compared with traditional physiotherapy.
Official title: A Controlled Trial Comparing Virtual Reality-Based PABLO Training With Traditional Otago Physiotherapy for Balance, Frailty, and Fall Risk in Adults Aged 45 Years and Older
Key Details
Gender
All
Age Range
40 Years - Any
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Enrollment
80
Start Date
2026-01-01
Completion Date
2026-06-01
Last Updated
2026-01-07
Healthy Volunteers
No
Interventions
Virtual Reality-Based Training Program
Participants assigned to this arm will receive a virtual reality (VR)-based exercise program using the PABLO system. The intervention will be delivered over 12 weeks, with two supervised sessions per week (approximately 30 minutes per session). Training will include interactive balance exercises with real-time biofeedback, strength and power tasks, aerobic stepping activities, and flexibility exercises. Exercise intensity and progression will be guided by perceived exertion and task performance. The program is designed to improve balance control, mobility, strength, and engagement while reducing fall risk
Physiotherapy Exercise Program
Participants assigned to this arm will receive a traditional physiotherapy program based on the Otago Exercise Programme. The intervention will be delivered over 12 weeks, with two supervised sessions per week (approximately 30 minutes per session). The program will include balance training, lower-limb strength and power exercises, aerobic components, and flexibility exercises, following established Otago progression principles. This program aims to improve balance, mobility, and physical function and reduce fall risk using conventional physiotherapy methods.