Exploring pathways affecting balance in Parkinson's disease
Pathways Mediating Impaired Postural Control in Parkinson's Disease
This study looks at how brain pathways that control balance and movement work in people with Parkinson's disease compared to healthy older and younger adults.
Quick facts
| Study type | Observational |
|---|---|
| Enrollment | 120 (estimated) |
| Ages | 45 Years to 80 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University of Minnesota Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Minneapolis, Minnesota) |
| Trial ID | NCT06464029 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This project investigates the excitability of brain pathways that control leg and trunk muscles in individuals with Parkinson's disease using transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS). It aims to analyze how these pathways relate to postural instability and gait dysfunction. The study includes participants with Parkinson's disease, healthy older adults, and healthy young adults to compare results across different age groups. The research is observational and focuses on basic physiological mechanisms rather than treatment outcomes.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates include individuals aged 45-80 with a diagnosis of idiopathic Parkinson's disease who can walk independently.
Not a fit: Patients with significant musculoskeletal disorders or those on anticoagulant medications may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enhance understanding of balance issues in Parkinson's disease, potentially leading to improved management strategies.
How similar studies have performed: While this approach is exploratory, similar studies using TMS have shown promise in understanding neurological conditions, though this specific focus on postural control in Parkinson's disease is less common.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: Participants with Parkinson's disease * Diagnosis of idiopathic PD or dystonia as determined by a movement disorders neurologist in accordance with the UK Society Brain Bank diagnostic criteria. * Age 45-80 years. * Able to ambulate independently without the use of an assistive device (e.g. cane) for 50 meters. Healthy Older Adults (Control participants) * Age 45-80 years (this group will be age and sex-matched to the PD group) * Able to ambulate independently without the use of an assistive device (cane or walker) Healthy Young Adults * Age 21-44 years (this group will be age and sex-matched to the PD group) * Able to ambulate independently without the use of an assistive device (cane or walker) Exclusion Criteria: * Subjects who describe a history of a frequent vasovagal syncope (fainting) in response to blood, emotional stress, or sensory triggers. * Subjects who are on anti-coagulant medications. * Any musculoskeletal disorder that affects the ability to stand. * History of seizures, epilepsy, stroke, multiple sclerosis, or traumatic brain injury. * Intracranial metallic or magnetic devices. * Pacemaker or any implanted device. * History of surgery on blood vessels, brain or heart. * Unexplained, recurring headaches or concussion within the last six months. * Moderate to severe hearing impairment. * Subjects who are pregnant. * Dementia diagnosis * Other significant neurological disorders that may affect participation or performance in the study * Implanted deep brain stimulator or other neurosurgeries to treat PD.
Where this trial is running
Minneapolis, Minnesota
- University of Minnesota — Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Colum MacKinnon, MD — University of Minnesota
- Study coordinator: Joshua De Kam
- Email: jadekam@umn.edu
- Phone: 612-626-8052
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.