Using fMRI neurofeedback to help manage Parkinson's disease
Official title: MOTOR-NF - a Randomized Controlled Trial of FMRI-based Neurofeedback for Motor Symptoms of Parkinson's Disease
Run by Maastricht University Medical Center · NCT06582355 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing whether using brain training with fMRI can help people with Parkinson's disease improve their movement and manage their symptoms better.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 60 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Maastricht University Medical Center Academic / other |
| Locations | 2 sites (Cologne and 1 other locations) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | February 10, 2025 |
| Main results expected | July 2026 |
| Study ends | December 2026 |
| Registry record updated | March 24, 2025 |
| Trial ID | NCT06582355 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates for this study are adults aged 18 and older diagnosed with Parkinson's disease at stages 1-3 according to the Hoehn and Yahr Scale.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with conditions that interfere with MRI data acquisition or those with a history of severe psychiatric disorders may not benefit from this study.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This study explores the use of neurofeedback, a technique that allows patients to self-regulate brain activity, in individuals with Parkinson's disease. By utilizing real-time functional MRI (fMRI) signals, patients will learn to enhance their motor functions through mental imagery and self-regulation strategies. The goal is to provide a non-invasive alternative to traditional treatments, such as medication and deep brain stimulation, which may not be effective for all patients. The study aims to assess the feasibility and potential clinical benefits of this innovative approach.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could offer a new, non-invasive treatment option for patients with Parkinson's disease who do not respond well to existing therapies.
How similar studies have gone: Preliminary data from similar studies suggest that neurofeedback may provide clinical benefits, indicating a promising avenue for further exploration.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Diagnosis of Parkinson's disease. * Disease stage 1-3 according to the Hoehn and Yahr Scale * Age: 18 years or more Exclusion Criteria: * Exclusion criteria for MRI (e.g., cardiac pacemaker, certain metallic implants) * History of psychotic disorder, bipolar disorder, or psychotic depression * Current use of illegal drugs (any in the last four weeks) * Current excessive alcohol consumption that interferes with daily functioning * A score on the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) below 24/30. * Any disorder that would interfere with accurate and usable data acquisition.
Where it's running
-
Maastricht University
Maastricht, Netherlands Recruiting -
Uniklinik Köln
Cologne, Germany Not yet recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: David EJ Linden, Prof. — Maastricht University
- Study coordinator: David EJ Linden, Prof.
- Email: david.linden@maastrichtuniversity.nl
- Phone: +31 43 3881021
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.