Using Virtual Reality biofeedback for patients with motor neglect.
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Phase II single-blind randomised controlled trial of Virtual Reality biofeedback in patients with motor neglect from chronic pain or cerebrovascular disease.
IRAS ID
74696
Contact name
Nicholas Shenker
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust
Duration of Study in the UK
0 years, 11 months, 30 days
Research summary
Motor neglect is a form of motor dysfunction found in some chronic neurological conditions such as stroke, traumatic brain injury (TBI) or complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) and is negatively associated with recovery and rehabilitation. One feature of motor neglect is gait asymmetry, without sensorimotor causes. Virtual reality is a medium in which subjects can observe their movements in real time. It provides extra sensory feedback and reduces gait asymmetry in patients with motor neglect. Is rehabilitation utilising virtual reality as part of a two-week inpatient rehabilitation programme effective in reducing motor neglect?
Using a randomised controlled trial, subjects will be randomised to either the treatment group using a virtual reality biofeedback device or the control group, using the same screen with non-interactive video. Subjects will be instructed to walk on a treadmill, moving at a constant speed. A hoist will be used for patient safety as per clinical rehabilitation protocols. The biofeedback system uses motion-capture technology and tailor-made software to project the gait of subjects in the intervention group onto a large monitor placed in front of the treadmill. They will perform tasks such as avoiding virtual obstacles in their path. The control group will walk on the treadmill while watching video content. Subjects will complete five walking cycles. The walking cycles will be determined by their functional ability but any cycle will not be longer than 5 min. Subjects will have a 3 min break between each cycle. This task will be performed 3 or 4 times per week for two weeks. Subjective and objective outcome measures will be taken before and after the trial, as well as at follow up at 4 weeks, 12 weeks and 6 months.
REC name
London - Harrow Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
17/LO/0299
Date of REC Opinion
9 Mar 2017
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion