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Lay Description

This study aims to determine the effects of aerobic exercise as a primer to add-on virtual reality (VR)-based rehabilitation on balance and postural control and neuroplasticity (ability of brain to adapt in structure and function) in those with Parkinson's disease. This study will utilize two groups - one group will receive the exercise and VR, while the other group will receive stretching exercise and VR over eight weeks. We will administer outcomes at baseline, post-intervention, and follow-up.

Category

  • Nervous System
  • Rehabilitation
IRB Number
20230433HU
NCT Number
NCT06133283

Eligibility

Eligible Ages
18-85
Eligible Genders
All
Accepts Healthy Volunteers

Inclusion Criteria

1) Diagnosis of idiopathic PD (ages 18 –85) in Hoehn and Yahr stages 2 - 3.  

2) Subjects need to demonstrate a score of equal to or greater than 23 on the Mini Mental State Examination.

3) Subjects who have a score of ≤21.5 on the Mini Balance Evaluations Systems Test (miniBESTest).

Exclusion Criteria

1) Subjects with a history of other neurological diseases (i.e., stroke, multiple sclerosis) 2) Subjects with a history of severe cardiopulmonary disease, uncontrolled hypertension, orthostatic hypotension, uncontrolled diabetes, severe osteoporosis.

3) Subjects with a history of PD-specific surgical procedures such as deep brain stimulation etc.

4) Subjects with a history of head injury.

5) Subjects with a history of seizures or epilepsy.

6) Subjects who are currently pregnant.

 7)Individuals who use of medications that could alter corticomotor excitability or increase risk of seizure.

8) Individuals with skull abnormalities, fractures, unexplained, recurring headaches.

9)Individuals who have cognitive or communication impairment that would affect participation.

Study Design

Arm Groups

Study Contact

Alyssa Main
210-567-8767
baezaa1@uthscsa.edu

Principal Investigator
Anjali Sivaramakrishnan