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

Launched by ISTANBUL UNIVERSITY · Jun 25, 2025

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is studying whether using virtual reality (VR) games can help improve arm and hand function in boys and young men with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD), a condition that causes muscles to get weaker over time. The study will compare two groups: one receiving regular physical therapy, and the other doing the same therapy but without arm exercises, combined with special VR games designed to strengthen the shoulder, elbow, wrist, and hand. These games will be played using a VR headset that tracks hand movements, making the exercises interactive and engaging.

Boys and men aged 7 and older with DMD who can follow movement instructions and have some ability to use their arms (meaning they can bring their hand to their mouth) may be eligible to participate. Both those who can walk and those who cannot are welcome. Participants will attend therapy sessions twice a week for 8 weeks, and their arm strength, hand skills, fatigue, and quality of life will be checked before and after the study, as well as at a follow-up visit. This research hopes to find new ways to support independence and improve daily life for people living with DMD.

Gender

MALE

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • 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)
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • 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