Understanding how medication and cues affect walking in Parkinson's disease

Cortical correlates of gait in Parkinson's disease: impact of medication and cueing

NIH-funded research Oregon Health & Science University · NIH-11013427

This study looks at how Parkinson's disease impacts automatic walking and how it relates to thinking skills, comparing people with Parkinson's to those without, while also exploring how medication and helpful cues can improve walking and mobility.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionOregon Health & Science University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Portland, United States)
Project IDNIH-11013427 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how Parkinson's disease affects the ability to walk automatically, which is crucial for maintaining independence. It examines the relationship between cognitive function and walking in individuals with Parkinson's compared to healthy individuals. The study will measure brain activity while participants walk and turn, focusing on the effects of the common medication levodopa and innovative cueing techniques that help improve walking. By understanding these factors, the research aims to enhance rehabilitation strategies for better mobility.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Parkinson's disease, particularly those experiencing difficulties with walking and cognitive function.

Not a fit: Patients with Parkinson's disease who do not have mobility issues or cognitive impairments may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments and rehabilitation strategies that enhance walking ability and overall quality of life for patients with Parkinson's disease.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that interventions targeting gait and cognitive function in Parkinson's disease can lead to meaningful improvements, suggesting that this approach may also be effective.

Where this research is happening

Portland, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.