Clinical Research Directory

Impact of Virtual Reality (VR) Based Exercises on Lower Limb Lymphedema Outcomes (LELO)

This randomized controlled study aims to investigate the effects of virtual reality (VR)-assisted gait training, in addition to Complex Decongestive Therapy (CDT), on gait parameters, physical function, quality of life, and edema levels in patients with lower extremity lymphedema. Lymphedema is a progressive condition characterized by the accumulation of protein-rich fluid due to lymphatic drainage insufficiency, leading to chronic inflammation and fibrosis. It impairs gait patterns and reduces functional mobility. VR technologies, such as the RehaWalk system, provide interactive, personalized rehabilitation environments that enhance motor learning, motivation, and adherence to treatment. The study evaluates spatiotemporal gait parameters, three-zone foot analysis (heel, midfoot, forefoot), limb circumferences, ultrasound measurements (dermis, epidermis, subcutaneous fat thickness), and patient-reported outcomes. VR-based training offers a novel, engaging approach to improve physical rehabilitation outcomes in patients with lower limb lymphedema. No significant risks are expected in this study.

Effect of Hybrid Functional Electrical Stimulation and Augmented Reality-Based Gait Training on Gait Parameters Among Incomplete Spinal Cord Injury Patients

The goal of this clinical trial is to determine whether combining Functional Electrical Stimulation (FES) with Augmented Reality (AR)-based gait training can improve walking ability in individuals with incomplete spinal cord injury (SCI). The study aims to identify the most effective rehabilitation approach for enhancing gait performance and functional independence among these patients. In this study, participants will include: * Adults aged 18-45 years * Diagnosed with incomplete spinal cord injury (ASIA Impairment Scale grades C or D) * Neurological level of injury between T10 and L2 * Medically stable and able to walk with or without assistive devices * Cognitively intact and capable of providing informed consent Exclusion Criteria: * Severe spasticity or contractures in the lower limbs * Significant pain or joint instability * Other neurological or musculoskeletal disorders (e.g., stroke, multiple sclerosis) * Recent lower limb fractures or orthopedic surgeries * Cardiovascular instability or open skin lesions Two treatment groups will be formed: Group A and Group B. * Group A will receive Hybrid FES-AR gait training, which combines electrical stimulation of muscles with visual, task-specific feedback provided through augmented reality. * Group B will receive conventional gait training, which includes standard physiotherapy methods such as strength, balance, and mobility exercises without FES or AR. Both interventions will be delivered over 12 weeks, with 3 sessions per week, each lasting approximately 40 minutes. Baseline assessments will be conducted before starting therapy, followed by evaluations at 6 weeks and 12 weeks. The outcome measures will include improvements in gait speed, step length, stride length, cadence, and gait symmetry, using validated clinical tools such as the JAKC Observational Gait Analysis, Walking Index for Spinal Cord Injury II (WISCI II), and the Functional Gait Assessment (FGA). This study seeks to determine whether the hybrid approach (FES + AR) leads to greater improvement in walking ability compared to traditional gait training. The findings may help guide future rehabilitation strategies and support the integration of technology-based interventions into spinal cord injury management.

The Effect of Mobile Robot Assisted Gait Training on Gait Performance in Chronic Patients With Impaired Gait Function After Burn Injury

This study aims to examine the clinical effectiveness of gait training using wearable robots in patients with impaired gait function after burn injury. The participants were chronic patients who underwent split-thickness skin grafting or burns of more than 50% of the lower extremities and still had impaired gait dysfunction 6 months later. Eligible participants were aged over 18 years and had a Functional Ambulation Category (FAC) score of 3 or higher. Physiotherapy was performed on a one to one basis by qualified physiotherapists for 1 hour per day, 5 days a week Monday through Friday, for 12 weeks. Assessments were carried out before and immediately after the 12-week training period. Physical ability were assessed using the functional ambulatory category(FAC) scale, the 6-Minute Walk Test (6MWT), and the visual analogue scale (VAS). Spatiotemporal gait parameters-including gait speed, cadence, and step length-and sagittal joint kinematic parameters for the hip, knee, and ankle during stance and swing phases were measured during gait analysis. Pulmonary function test such as forced vital capacity (FVC), 1-s forced expiratory volume (FEV1), and carbon monoxide (DLco). The highest maximal expiratory pressure (MEP) and maximal inspiratory pressure (MIP) value were evaluated.