Using self-administered brain stimulation to improve walking in Parkinson's patients
Self-administered Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation for Improving Single- and Dual-task Gait in Patients With Idiopathic Parkinson's Disease: A Prospective, Single-center, Double-blind, Exploratory, Randomized Controlled Trial
This study is testing if a new brain stimulation method that people can do themselves can help improve walking for those with Parkinson's disease.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 24 (estimated) |
| Ages | 19 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Seoul National University Hospital Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Seoul) |
| Trial ID | NCT06324448 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study investigates the efficacy and safety of self-administered transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) to enhance both single- and dual-task gait in patients diagnosed with Parkinson's disease. Parkinson's disease is characterized by motor symptoms such as gait disturbances, which can be exacerbated by cognitive demands during dual-tasking. The study aims to explore how tDCS, a non-invasive method that alters cortical activity, can improve motor and cognitive functions over time. By focusing on the cumulative effects of tDCS, the research seeks to provide insights into its potential as a rehabilitation tool for gait improvement in Parkinson's patients.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are individuals clinically diagnosed with idiopathic Parkinson's disease at Hoehn & Yahr stages 2, 2.5, or 3.
Not a fit: Patients with a history of seizures, severe dyskinesia, or significant cognitive impairment may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly enhance the walking ability and overall quality of life for patients with Parkinson's disease.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown positive results for tDCS in improving motor and cognitive functions in Parkinson's patients, indicating a promising avenue for further exploration.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Clinically diagnosed as idiopathic Parkinson's disease by neurologists according to the UK Parkinson's Disease Society Brain Bank criteria * modified Hoehn \& Yahr stage 2, 2.5, or 3 Exclusion Criteria: * History of seizure * Metallic implants, such as cardiac pacemaker or an artificial cochlea * Patients with inflammation, burns, or wounds in the stimulation area * Parkinson's disease dementia; cut-off is \< 7 of Korean-Montreal Cognitive Assessment for illiterate patients, \< 13 for those educated for 0.5-3 years, \< 16 for 4-6 years of education, \< 19 for 7-9 years of education, and \< 20 for 10 or more years of education. * Severe dyskinesia or severe on-off phenomenon * Plan to adjust medication at the time of screening * Other neurological, orthopedic, or cardiovascular co-morbidities significantly affecting gait function * Uncontrolled vestibular disease, orthopedic hypotension, or paroxysmal vertigo * Pregnant or lactating patients * Other comorbidities that make it difficult to participate in this study
Where this trial is running
Seoul
- Seoul National University Hospital — Seoul, Korea, Republic of (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Han Gil Seo, PhD
- Email: hgseo80@gmail.com
- Phone: 82-2-2072-1659
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.