Virtual Reality–Based Adaptive Gait Training for Adults with Peripheral Neuropathy

Summary

This study is testing a new way to help people with peripheral neuropathy improve their balance, walking, and stability. Peripheral neuropathy is a condition that causes weakness, numbness, and unsteady walking, which can increase the risk of falls.

The program uses virtual reality (VR) and a smartwatch to guide participants through safe walking and balance exercises. The VR system adjusts the difficulty of the training based on performance, making the activities challenging but not overwhelming.

The main goal of this study is to see if a 6-week VR-based gait training program can improve mobility, reduce fall risk, and increase confidence in daily movement. Researchers will also look at how safe and easy the program is to use, and whether wearable sensors can provide useful data about walking changes.

Eligibility

Currently recruiting participants: Yes

Eligible ages: 40 to 55

Inclusion criteria:

1. Adults aged 40 years or older.
2. Have a clinical diagnosis of peripheral neuropathy.
3. Able to walk at least 10 meters, with or without a walking aid.
4. Able and willing to attend weekly VR training sessions for 6 weeks at the University of Calgary (W21C).

Exclusion criteria:

1. Severe vision, balance (vestibular), or memory/thinking (cognitive) problems that would prevent safe use of VR.
2. Uncontrolled medical conditions such as unstable heart disease or major orthopedic injuries.
3. Currently taking part in another rehabilitation study that may conflict with this one.
4. Strong sensitivity to motion sickness that makes VR use intolerable.

Participate

Fill out the following form if you want to participate in this research

Method of contact

Additional information

Contact information

Contact Email Address: junho.park@ucalgary.ca

Principal investigator:

Junho Park

Clinical trial:

No

REB-ID:

REB25-1347

External links

clinicaltrials