The Effect of Virtual Reality Applications on Upper Extremity Functions in Patients With Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy

Recruiting now · Not applicable

Conditions studied: Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD), Virtual Reality

In brief

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 facts

Study ID

NCT07039799

Run by

Istanbul University

People needed

36

Starts

2025-08-15

Expected to finish

2027-08-15

Last updated by the study team

2026-05-19

Who can join

Age: 7 and older, up to 18. Sex: male. Healthy volunteers: not accepted.

You may qualify if…

• Clinical diagnosis of Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD)
• Age ≥ 7 years
• Ambulatory or non-ambulatory status (both are eligible)
• Ability to follow movement instructions
• Brooke Upper Extremity Functional Rating Scale (BUEFS) level ≤ 4 (i.e., able to bring hand to mouth)

You may not qualify if…

• Presence of any neurological diagnosis other than DMD
• Cognitive, behavioral, or communication impairments that limit participation
• Systemic illness or condition interfering with participation
• Severe visual impairments incompatible with VR headset use
• Presence of severe contractures or deformities that prevent execution of VR-based exercises

Where it is running

• İstanbul Üniversitesi Cerrahpaşa Tıp Fakültesi — Istanbul, Fatih, Turkey (Türkiye) (enrolling)

Full record on ClinicalTrials.gov

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