COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease)NCT06604754
Effects of VR Training on Balance and Fall Risk of Patients With COPD
A study testing Assigned Intervention for VR Training and Assigned Intervention for Traditional Physical Therapy Training in people with COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease), run by Riphah International University at 1 site in Pakistan.
Trial summary
The aim of this study is to determine whether Virtual Reality (VR) training has significant effects on balance and fall risk of patients with COPD, with a focus on the patient group (GOLD STANDARD I \& II). Read more about this study
- Who is it for?
- Ages 40 to 65 years
- Conditions the study is for
- COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease)
- What is being tested?
- Assigned Intervention for VR Training and Assigned Intervention for Traditional Physical Therapy Training
- Could I receive a placebo?
- No, everyone receives an active treatment
- How many people
- 50 participants
- Where
- 1 sitePakistan
- Study dates
- 12 Jun 2025to 30 Dec 2025
- Phase
- Interventional
- Are there results?
- None posted in the registry
Key requirements
Who can take part, as listed by the sponsor. Only the study team can confirm whether you are eligible, so take this list to your doctor.
- Ages 40 to 65 years
- All sexes
- No healthy volunteers
- Adult, Older adult
Who may be able to join
- Both Male and Female
- Diagnosed with mild to moderate COPD (GOLD stages I-II)
- Age between 40-65 years
- BBS score above 35 will be included.
- COPD patients with oxygen saturation of above 88%.
- Patients able to follow instructions / commands.
Who cannot join
- Recent exacerbation of COPD requiring hospitalization within last 4 weeks.
- Diagnosed with severe cognitive impairments.
- Previous experience with VR-based rehabilitation.
- Use of medication that could affect exercise response.
Trial locations and contacts
1 site in 1 country.
About this study
Official title: Effects of Virtual Reality Training on Balance and Fall Risk of Patients With Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
The aim of this study is to determine whether Virtual Reality (VR) training has significant effects on balance and fall risk of patients with COPD, with a focus on the patient group (GOLD STANDARD I \& II). Additionally, the study determines whether VR training is a reliable substitute for traditional physical therapy balance.
Read the detailed description
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is the forth leading cause of mortality worldwide. COPD often impairs balance due to decreased physical activity, muscle weakness, and compromised respiratory function. Virtual Reality training addresses these issues by offering an immersive and engaging environment that enhances patient motivation and adherence to rehabilitation. The technology allows for personalized and controlled balance exercises, progressively increasing the difficulty to match the patient's skill level and providing real-time feedback. By integrating cognitive and motor tasks, VR promotes a comprehensive approach to balance training, improving sensory integration and postural control.
Research indicates that VR training can enhance both static and dynamic balance, helping patients maintain stability in various conditions. It improves the integration of sensory inputs crucial for balance, while also contributing to muscle strength and endurance. This results in a reduction in fall frequency, as patients become more adept at managing balance and are less likely to fall during daily activities. Additionally, VR training teaches specific fall prevention strategies and boosts patient confidence, which further mitigates the fear of falling-a common issue among COPD patients.
Incorporating VR training into physical therapy programs for COPD patients can be highly beneficial. Its ability to provide engaging and customizable exercises makes it a valuable tool in addressing balance issues and reducing fall risks. However, it is essential to ensure that VR training is conducted under proper supervision to avoid potential accidents, especially in patients with severe COPD or additional health concerns. Overall, VR training represents a significant advancement in rehabilitation, offering a novel and effective approach to managing balance and fall risks in COPD patients. The purpose of study is to determine whether VR training has significant effects on balance and fall risk of patients with COPD (GOLD standard stage I \& II).
- Being tested
- Assigned Intervention for VR Training, Assigned Intervention for Traditional Physical Therapy Training
- Keywords
- COPD, VR, BBS
- Medical subject headings
- Pulmonary Disease, Chronic Obstructive
What participants receive
What participants receive. In a randomised study each person is assigned to one group by chance.
Assigned Intervention for VR TrainingOther
In VR training patients use VR headsets to engage in virtual environments for 8 weeks where they perform exercises designed to enhance balance, coordination, and strength. Simultaneously, the VR platform incorporate pulmonary exercises that focus on improving breathing techniques, lung capacity, and overall respiratory health. Patients will engage in 3 sessions per week with total time duration of 45 to 60 minutes. VR-based training provides real-time feedback and adapts to the patient's progress, offering a comprehensive approach to rehabilitation that addresses both balance and pulmonary function in a motivating and controlled manner.
Assigned Intervention for Traditional Physical Therapy TrainingOther
In Traditional physical therapy balance training for patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) involves exercises designed to improve stability, strength, and coordination for duration of 8 weeks. These exercises, such as static balance tasks, dynamic movement drills, and strength training, help address the balance deficits often seen in COPD patients due to muscle weakness and reduced physical activity. Additionally, pulmonary effects are managed through breathing exercises such as deep breathing and pursed lip breathing that enhance respiratory functions, improve lung capacity and efficiency.
| Study group | Role | What they receive |
|---|---|---|
| Virtual Reality Based Training | Experimental | Virtual reality (VR) based balance training utilizes immersive digital environments to enhance balance and stability through interactive and engaging exercises. Patients wear VR headsets that create realistic scenarios where they perform various balance tasks, such as navigating virtual obstacles or maintaining stability on unstable surfaces. This technology offers the advantage of providing controlled, adjustable challenges that can be tailored to the patient's specific needs and progress. VR training often incorporates real-time feedback, which helps patients improve their balance in a motivating and dynamic setting. Receives: Other: Assigned Intervention for VR Training |
| Traditional Physical Therapy Based Training: | Active comparator | Traditional physical therapy-based balance training focuses on improving stability and preventing falls through a variety of exercises and techniques. It typically begins with a comprehensive assessment to identify balance issues and set individualized goals. The training includes static exercises like single-leg stands, dynamic activities such as walking on uneven surfaces, and strengthening and flexibility exercises to enhance muscle control and range of motion. Coordination and functional training, including gait and daily activity simulation, are also integral. Additionally, patients receive education on fall prevention strategies and home safety. Regular monitoring ensures that the program is adjusted to the patient's progress and ongoing needs, ultimately enhancing balance and reducing fall risk. Receives: Other: Assigned Intervention for Traditional Physical Therapy Training |
What is being measured
The primary outcome is the main question the study is designed to answer.
Balance
Berg Balance Scale (BBS) is used to assess balance. It consists of a 14 item that evaluates a persons performance on particular functional task.
Measured: 8 weeks
Functional Capacity
The Six Minute Walk Test (SMWT) is a widely used tool for assessing functional exercise capacity, especially in populations with pulmonary and cardiovascular conditions. The test is performed under controlled conditions with the patient encouraged to perform at their own pace and take breaks if needed. the distance covered is measured and any change in condition or symptoms are noted.
Measured: 8 weeks
Peak Expiratory Flow rate
Peak expiratory flow rate (PEFR) Peak expiratory flow rate (PEFR) measured through digital spirometer. Peak Expiratory Flow Rate (PEFR) measured through digital spirometer. Three zones of measurement are commonly used to interpret peak flow rates. Normal value of PEFR is (80-100%). Green zone indicates 80 to 100 percent of the usual or normal peak flow reading, yellow zone indicates 50 to 79 percent of the usual or normal peak flow readings, and red zone indicates less than 50 percent of the usual or normal peak flow readings
Measured: 8 weeks
Forced Vital Capacity
Forced vital capacity (FVC) measured through digital spirometer. If the value of FVC is within 80% of the reference value, the results are considered normal.
Measured: 8 weeks
Forced Expiratory Volume in 1sec
Forced expiratory volume in 1sec (FEV1) measured through digital spirometer. If the value of FEV1 is within 80% of the reference value, the results are considered normal.
Measured: 8 weeks
FVC/FEV1 ratio
The FVC/FEV1 ratio is crucial for differentiating between obstructive and restrictive lung patterns. It helps in diagnosing conditions like asthma and COPD, and in monitoring the progression or improvement of these diseases. In clinical practice, this ratio is used alongside other spirometric measurements and patient history to provide a comprehensive assessment of lung function.
Measured: 8 weeks
Timeline
From the start of the study to its completion; the mark is today. Estimated dates are the sponsor’s plan.
- First posted19 Sep 2024
- Study start12 Jun 2025
- Primary completion30 Nov 2025
- Study completion30 Dec 2025
Resources
- Official record on ClinicalTrials.govThe registry entry this page is built from, with its full change history.
- Other trials for COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease)Studies of the same condition, open and under way.
- More trials run by Riphah International UniversityThe sponsor's other registered studies.
- What the trial phases meanHow a treatment moves from first tests in people to approval.
More details
For doctors and researchers: how the study is designed, who runs it, and its registry IDs.
Study design
- Study type
- Interventional
- Phase
- Phase N/A
- Primary purpose
- Other
- Allocation
- Randomised
- Intervention model
- Parallel groups
- Masking
- None (open label)
- Enrolment
- 50 participants (actual)
Sponsor and investigators
- Lead sponsor
- Riphah International University
- Sponsor type
- University, hospital or other
- Responsible party
- Sponsor
- Investigators
- Suman Sheraz, PhD, Principal investigator, Riphah International University
IDs, dates and publications
- ClinicalTrials.gov ID
- NCT06604754
- Sponsor's protocol ID
- Syeda Marium Nadeem
- Status last verified
- Mar 2026
- First submitted
- 18 Sep 2024
- Last updated
- 17 Mar 2026
- Results posted
- No
- Data monitoring committee
- Yes
- FDA-regulated drug
- No
- FDA-regulated device
- No
- Individual data sharing
- No
Study at a glance
From the registry record, last updated by the sponsor on 17 Mar 2026. Recruitment status is as the sponsor reported it: confirm with the study team.
- Official title
- Effects of Virtual Reality Training on Balance and Fall Risk of Patients With Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
- ClinicalTrials.gov ID
- NCT06604754
- Acronym / sponsor ID
- Syeda Marium Nadeem
- Keywords
- COPD, VR, BBS
- Study type
- Interventional
- Recruitment status
- Completed
- Enrolment
- 50 participants (actual)
- Lead sponsor
- Riphah International UniversityUniversity, hospital or other
- Study start
- 12 Jun 2025 (actual)
- Primary completion
- 30 Nov 2025 (actual)
- Study completion
- 30 Dec 2025 (actual)
- First posted
- 19 Sep 2024 (actual)
- Results
- Not posted in the source record
Clinical summary
The research question as the sponsor registered it. This describes what the study plans to test, not what it found.
The aim of this study is to determine whether Virtual Reality (VR) training has significant effects on balance and fall risk of patients with COPD, with a focus on the patient group (GOLD STANDARD I \& II). Additionally, the study determines whether VR training is a reliable substitute for traditional physical therapy balance.
Detailed description
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is the forth leading cause of mortality worldwide. COPD often impairs balance due to decreased physical activity, muscle weakness, and compromised respiratory function. Virtual Reality training addresses these issues by offering an immersive and engaging environment that enhances patient motivation and adherence to rehabilitation. The technology allows for personalized and controlled balance exercises, progressively increasing the difficulty to match the patient's skill level and providing real-time feedback. By integrating cognitive and motor tasks, VR promotes a comprehensive approach to balance training, improving sensory integration and postural control.
Research indicates that VR training can enhance both static and dynamic balance, helping patients maintain stability in various conditions. It improves the integration of sensory inputs crucial for balance, while also contributing to muscle strength and endurance. This results in a reduction in fall frequency, as patients become more adept at managing balance and are less likely to fall during daily activities. Additionally, VR training teaches specific fall prevention strategies and boosts patient confidence, which further mitigates the fear of falling-a common issue among COPD patients.
Incorporating VR training into physical therapy programs for COPD patients can be highly beneficial. Its ability to provide engaging and customizable exercises makes it a valuable tool in addressing balance issues and reducing fall risks. However, it is essential to ensure that VR training is conducted under proper supervision to avoid potential accidents, especially in patients with severe COPD or additional health concerns. Overall, VR training represents a significant advancement in rehabilitation, offering a novel and effective approach to managing balance and fall risks in COPD patients. The purpose of study is to determine whether VR training has significant effects on balance and fall risk of patients with COPD (GOLD standard stage I \& II).
Study design
- Primary purpose
- Other
- Allocation
- Randomised
- Intervention model
- Parallel groups
- Masking
- None (open label)
- Number of arms
- 2
| Arm | Type | Receives |
|---|---|---|
| Virtual Reality Based Training | Experimental | Other: Assigned Intervention for VR TrainingVirtual reality (VR) based balance training utilizes immersive digital environments to enhance balance and stability through interactive and engaging exercises. Patients wear VR headsets that create realistic scenarios where they perform various balance tasks, such as navigating virtual obstacles or maintaining stability on unstable surfaces. This technology offers the advantage of providing controlled, adjustable challenges that can be tailored to the patient's specific needs and progress. VR training often incorporates real-time feedback, which helps patients improve their balance in a motivating and dynamic setting. |
| Traditional Physical Therapy Based Training: | Active comparator | Other: Assigned Intervention for Traditional Physical Therapy TrainingTraditional physical therapy-based balance training focuses on improving stability and preventing falls through a variety of exercises and techniques. It typically begins with a comprehensive assessment to identify balance issues and set individualized goals. The training includes static exercises like single-leg stands, dynamic activities such as walking on uneven surfaces, and strengthening and flexibility exercises to enhance muscle control and range of motion. Coordination and functional training, including gait and daily activity simulation, are also integral. Additionally, patients receive education on fall prevention strategies and home safety. Regular monitoring ensures that the program is adjusted to the patient's progress and ongoing needs, ultimately enhancing balance and reducing fall risk. |
Who may qualify
- Ages
- 40 to 65 years
- Sex
- All
- Healthy volunteers
- Not accepted
- Age groups
- Adult, Older adult
Key inclusion criteria (6 listed)
- Both Male and Female
- Diagnosed with mild to moderate COPD (GOLD stages I-II)
- Age between 40-65 years
- BBS score above 35 will be included.
- COPD patients with oxygen saturation of above 88%.
Key exclusion criteria (4 listed)
- Recent exacerbation of COPD requiring hospitalization within last 4 weeks.
- Diagnosed with severe cognitive impairments.
- Previous experience with VR-based rehabilitation.
- Use of medication that could affect exercise response.
Eligibility is decided by the study team after screening; this overview does not establish that a patient qualifies. Full inclusion and exclusion criteria.
Interventions
| Intervention | Type | Arms |
|---|---|---|
| Assigned Intervention for VR TrainingIn VR training patients use VR headsets to engage in virtual environments for 8 weeks where they perform exercises designed to enhance balance, coordination, and strength. Simultaneously, the VR platform incorporate pulmonary exercises that focus on improving breathing techniques, lung capacity, and overall respiratory health. Patients will engage in 3 sessions per week with total time duration of 45 to 60 minutes. VR-based training provides real-time feedback and adapts to the patient's progress, offering a comprehensive approach to rehabilitation that addresses both balance and pulmonary function in a motivating and controlled manner. | Other | Virtual Reality Based Training |
| Assigned Intervention for Traditional Physical Therapy TrainingIn Traditional physical therapy balance training for patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) involves exercises designed to improve stability, strength, and coordination for duration of 8 weeks. These exercises, such as static balance tasks, dynamic movement drills, and strength training, help address the balance deficits often seen in COPD patients due to muscle weakness and reduced physical activity. Additionally, pulmonary effects are managed through breathing exercises such as deep breathing and pursed lip breathing that enhance respiratory functions, improve lung capacity and efficiency. | Other | Traditional Physical Therapy Based Training: |
Primary outcome
Balance
Time frame: 8 weeks
Berg Balance Scale (BBS) is used to assess balance. It consists of a 14 item that evaluates a persons performance on particular functional task.
Functional Capacity
Time frame: 8 weeks
The Six Minute Walk Test (SMWT) is a widely used tool for assessing functional exercise capacity, especially in populations with pulmonary and cardiovascular conditions. The test is performed under controlled conditions with the patient encouraged to perform at their own pace and take breaks if needed. the distance covered is measured and any change in condition or symptoms are noted.
Peak Expiratory Flow rate
Time frame: 8 weeks
Peak expiratory flow rate (PEFR) Peak expiratory flow rate (PEFR) measured through digital spirometer. Peak Expiratory Flow Rate (PEFR) measured through digital spirometer. Three zones of measurement are commonly used to interpret peak flow rates. Normal value of PEFR is (80-100%). Green zone indicates 80 to 100 percent of the usual or normal peak flow reading, yellow zone indicates 50 to 79 percent of the usual or normal peak flow readings, and red zone indicates less than 50 percent of the usual or normal peak flow readings
Forced Vital Capacity
Time frame: 8 weeks
Forced vital capacity (FVC) measured through digital spirometer. If the value of FVC is within 80% of the reference value, the results are considered normal.
Forced Expiratory Volume in 1sec
Time frame: 8 weeks
Forced expiratory volume in 1sec (FEV1) measured through digital spirometer. If the value of FEV1 is within 80% of the reference value, the results are considered normal.
FVC/FEV1 ratio
Time frame: 8 weeks
The FVC/FEV1 ratio is crucial for differentiating between obstructive and restrictive lung patterns. It helps in diagnosing conditions like asthma and COPD, and in monitoring the progression or improvement of these diseases. In clinical practice, this ratio is used alongside other spirometric measurements and patient history to provide a comprehensive assessment of lung function.
Results and safety
The study is completed, but results are not available in the source record. That does not mean the treatment did or did not work.
Research links
- Official record on ClinicalTrials.govLast updated by the sponsor 17 Mar 2026.
- Individual participant dataSharing planned: No
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Referral and contact
AzTrials does not enrol participants or take referrals. Contact the study team or a site listed below; they decide who can take part. This study is not recruiting at the moment.
Suman Sheraz, PhD principal investigator
Riphah International University
1 site in 1 country: see every site and its status.
Questions about this trial
What is this clinical trial studying?
A study testing Assigned Intervention for VR Training and Assigned Intervention for Traditional Physical Therapy Training in people with COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease), run by Riphah International University at 1 site in Pakistan.
The full registered description is in the About this study section and the official record.
Who may be eligible to take part?
The sponsor lists 6 inclusion and 4 exclusion criteria. Eligibility is decided by the study team after screening, so read the full criteria and contact a listed site.
Is this clinical trial currently recruiting?
The record says: finished, as of the sponsor's last update on 17 Mar 2026. Status can change between updates, so confirm with the study contact before making plans.
Where is the study taking place?
The record lists 1 site in Pakistan. Whether a site is taking part right now should be confirmed with that site. See every site.
What are the possible benefits and risks?
They depend on the study and the treatment, and no study can promise a benefit. The study team explains the known risks during informed consent, before anyone joins; the record itself does not list them.
Are results available for this study?
The study is completed, but results are not available in the source record. That does not mean the treatment did or did not work.
How can a doctor refer a patient or contact the research team?
The record lists no contact. The official record names the sponsor, who can be asked directly. AzTrials does not enrol participants or take referrals.
What does the primary outcome measure?
Balance (time frame: 8 weeks). The study lists 6 primary outcomes in all. It is what the study was designed to measure, not a finding.
Where can I read the original study information?
Does a listing mean the treatment is approved or proven to work?
No. A listing means the study is registered. It does not show that the treatment is safe, works, or is approved by a regulator.
How often is this information updated?
AzTrials copies changed records from ClinicalTrials.gov every night and reloads the whole registry every week. The sponsor last updated this record on 17 Mar 2026.