Using Theta-Burst Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation to Treat Freezing of Gait

Effect of Theta-Burst Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TBS) for Freezing of Gait

Not applicable Interventional Anhui Medical University · NCT05192759

This study is testing if a new brain stimulation treatment can help people with freezing of gait improve their walking and movement.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment40 (estimated)
Ages40 Years to 85 Years
SexAll
SponsorAnhui Medical University Academic / other
Locations1 site (Hefei, Anhui)
Trial IDNCT05192759 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This clinical trial investigates the effects of Theta-burst Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TBS) on patients experiencing freezing of gait (FOG). Forty patients diagnosed with FOG will undergo TBS treatment for one week, with assessments conducted before and after the treatment to evaluate changes in symptoms and underlying neural mechanisms. Various cognitive and motor tests, along with MRI and EEG, will be utilized to gather comprehensive data on the efficacy of the treatment. Follow-up evaluations will occur one and two months post-treatment to monitor ongoing effects.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are individuals aged 40 and older who have been diagnosed with freezing of gait and are on stable medication.

Not a fit: Patients with a history of psychiatric disorders, neurological diseases other than Parkinson's disease, or those who have previously received rTMS treatment may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this treatment could significantly improve mobility and quality of life for patients suffering from freezing of gait.

How similar studies have performed: While the use of TBS is a novel approach in this context, similar studies have shown promise in using transcranial magnetic stimulation for various neurological conditions.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

1. diagnosis of FOG with expertise in movement disorders.
2. the score of item 3 of the FOG questionnaire ≥1.
3. ongoing treatment with a stable dose of any medication for 2 months.
4. 40 years of age or older.

Exclusion Criteria:

1. a history of addiction, psychiatric disorders, or neurological diseases other than PD.
2. focal brain lesions on T1-/T2-weighted fluid-attenuated inversion recovery images.
3. anti-PD medication adjustments during rTMS treatment.
4. history of substance abuse within the past 6 months.
5. nonremovable metal objects in or around the head.
6. previously received rTMS treatment.
7. prior history of seizure or history in first-degree relatives.

Where this trial is running

Hefei, Anhui

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Transcranial Magnetic StimulationFreezing of GaitFreezing of gait
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.