Exploring how deep brain stimulation affects attention and freezing of gait in Parkinson's disease

Is this trial a fit for you?

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

What this trial studies

This research investigates the effects of deep brain stimulation (DBS) on visuospatial attention and its correlation with freezing of gait (FOG) in individuals with Parkinson's disease. The study will evaluate how stimulation of the subthalamic nucleus (STN) influences visual attention and whether these changes are linked to improvements in FOG. Participants will undergo DBS with alternating stimulation of the left and right STN to assess the impact on their gait and attention. The findings aim to enhance understanding of FOG and potentially lead to new treatment strategies.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

Inclusion Criteria:

* Subjects above 18 years of age
* Subjects with freezing of gait
* Subjects with bilateral STN-DBS surgery as part of their clinical care for Parkinson's disease

Exclusion Criteria:

* Uncorrected visual or hearing impairments, as indicated by self-report
* Individuals who are pregnant or expect to become pregnant during the course of the study
* Individuals with dementia or relevant brain lesions impacting cognition or gait

Where it's running

• Medical University of South Carolina
  Charleston, South Carolina, United States Recruiting

Study contacts

• Principal investigator: Nathan DeTurk, MD — Medical University of South Carolina
• Study coordinator: Nathan DeTurk, MD
• Email: deturk@musc.edu
• Phone: 843-792-3221

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How to take part

1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.