Study protocol of a randomised controlled trial of the effects of near-infrared spectroscopy neurofeedback training coupled with virtual reality technology in children with ADHD

Study Protocol Overview

Background

The increase in ADHD diagnoses in children shows a need for effective treatments. Neurofeedback training (NFT) has shown promise, but many studies are done in labs, which may not translate to real life. This study explores combining NFT with virtual reality (VR) to create a more realistic training experience that can help children with ADHD.

Methods

We will recruit 138 children aged 7-12 with ADHD. After assessing their baseline, participants will be randomly placed into one of three groups:

  • NIRS-based NFT in a VR classroom setting
  • Conventional computerized cognitive training (active control)
  • Waitlist control group

After the training sessions, all groups will be assessed again, with a follow-up two months later. We will measure:

  • Executive function (attentional control, response inhibition, working memory)
  • Oxygen levels in the brain monitored by NIRS
  • Parent and teacher ratings of children’s ADHD symptoms and daily behaviors

Discussion

This trial will fill gaps in research about the effectiveness of NIRS-based NFT combined with VR for children with ADHD. By simulating real-world situations, we hope to enhance the intervention’s effectiveness. The results will inform how well this innovative approach works in improving executive function and reducing ADHD symptoms.

Ethics and Dissemination

Ethical approval has been granted by the Human Research Ethics Committee at the University of Hong Kong. Results will be published in peer-reviewed journals and shared at conferences.

Trial Registration Number

NCT05906485.

Clinical Trials and Everyday Practice

Clinical trials are essential for creating safe and effective treatments. It’s important to make these benefits accessible in everyday medical settings. Our AI-driven platform, DocSym, brings together clinical standards and research into a single, user-friendly resource for healthcare providers.

Enhancing Healthcare Operations

In today’s healthcare landscape, efficient operations are vital. Our mobile apps assist with scheduling, treatment monitoring, and telemedicine, simplifying patient care and expanding digital services.

Using AI for Better Outcomes

By implementing AI, clinics can improve workflows, enhance patient outcomes, and reduce paperwork. Discover how we can assist your practice at aidevmd.com.

AI Products for Business or Try Custom Development

AI Sales Bot

Welcome AI Sales Bot, your 24/7 teammate! Engaging customers in natural language across all channels and learning from your materials, it’s a step towards efficient, enriched customer interactions and sales

AI Document Assistant

Unlock insights and drive decisions with our AI Insights Suite. Indexing your documents and data, it provides smart, AI-driven decision support, enhancing your productivity and decision-making.

AI Customer Support

Upgrade your support with our AI Assistant, reducing response times and personalizing interactions by analyzing documents and past engagements. Boost your team and customer satisfaction

AI Scrum Bot

Enhance agile management with our AI Scrum Bot, it helps to organize retrospectives. It answers queries and boosts collaboration and efficiency in your scrum processes.