Innovative Methodologies for Neuroplasticity in Developmental Age With the Use of Virtual Reality

Trial statusRecruiting
Trial phaseNot applicable
Trial typeInterventional
Biological sexAll
Age8-18
SponsorIRCCS Centro Neurolesi Bonino Pulejo

About this trial

Neurodevelopmental disorders, such as Cerebral Palsy (CP), Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), are complex conditions that affect various aspects of children's development. Despite advancements in treatments, conventional rehabilitative interventions tend to focus on specific aspects, often overlooking the holistic needs of the patient. Many of these interventions fail to engage children, who may feel uninvolved or demotivated. Innovative technologies, such as immersive virtual reality (IVR), offer a promising alternative to make rehabilitation more engaging and comprehensive. This study aims to evaluate the effects of IVR-based rehabilitation on children and adolescents with neurodevelopmental disorders, focusing on improvements in cognitive, motor, and social functions. We hypothesize that IVR will enhance social interaction, attention, motor skills, and overall quality of life. The study will include children and adolescents aged 8 to 18 years, diagnosed with ADHD, ASD, and cerebral palsy. The CAR-EN platform, which provides a highly customizable therapeutic environment, will be used. Assessments will measure cognitive, motor, and social skills before and after the intervention. We expect immersive virtual reality to lead to significant improvements in the participants' cognitive, motor, and social abilities. These findings could potentially contribute to a shift in therapeutic guidelines, offering more effective treatments for children with neurodevelopmental disorders.

Eligibility criteria

Qualifiers

Children and adolescents aged 8 to 18 years

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

Cerebral Palsy (CP)

Disqualifiers

Children and adolescents younger than 8 or older than 18 years

Severe cognitive impairments or intellectual disabilities that prevent participation in the rehabilitation program

Major psychiatric disorders (e.g., severe depression, schizophrenia)

Neurological disorders not included in the study (e.g., epilepsy)

Trial design

Treatments tested in this trial

  • CAREN therapy
  • Conventional interventions

Treatment groups

108 Participants
are divided into 2 treatment groups