Aerobic Exercise + Virtual Reality for Parkinson's Disease
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This project will provide preliminary data on the feasibility and effects of exercise and VR on motor behavior and neuroplasticity in PD. Results from this work will provide insight into whether combination interventions utilizing AE and VR have parallel effects on cognition, gait, and neuroplasticity in PD.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial excludes participants who use medications that could alter brain activity or increase the risk of seizures, so you may need to stop certain medications. It's best to discuss your specific medications with the trial team.
Is aerobic exercise combined with virtual reality safe for people with Parkinson's disease?
How does the Aerobic Exercise + Virtual Reality treatment for Parkinson's Disease differ from other treatments?
This treatment combines aerobic exercise with virtual reality to enhance motivation and adherence, offering a unique way to improve mobility, balance, and quality of life for Parkinson's patients. Unlike traditional therapies, it allows for engaging, multisensory experiences that can be done at home, reducing travel burdens and increasing patient confidence.13456
What data supports the effectiveness of the treatment Aerobic Exercise + Virtual Reality for Parkinson's Disease?
Research shows that virtual reality (VR) therapy can help improve balance, daily activities, and mood in Parkinson's disease patients. Studies also indicate that VR can safely promote physical activity and enhance rehabilitation outcomes, making it a promising addition to traditional exercise therapies for Parkinson's disease.13578
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for people aged 18-85 with Parkinson's Disease in early to mid-stages (stages 1-3) who can think clearly enough (score ≥23 on a mental state exam). It's not for those with other neurological diseases, severe heart/lung conditions, uncontrolled diabetes or blood pressure issues, severe bone weakness, brain surgery for PD, head injuries, seizures/epilepsy, pregnancy or certain medication use.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants perform aerobic exercise followed by virtual reality to assess effects on motor behavior and neuroplasticity
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Aerobic Exercise
- Virtual Reality
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio
Lead Sponsor
Texas Physical Therapy Association
Collaborator