Usability of a Novel Cueing Device for Patients With Parkinson's Disease

Launched by SWISS FEDERAL INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY · Jul 3, 2020

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is studying a new wearable device designed to help people with Parkinson's disease who experience difficulties with walking, specifically a problem known as Freezing of Gait (FOG). FOG can make it hard for patients to move, which can lead to falls and affect their quality of life. The device, called a tactile cueing device, sends gentle signals to help prompt movement, making it easier for participants to walk.

To join the study, participants should be between 65 and 74 years old and must have advanced Parkinson's disease with specific walking difficulties. They must also be able to understand the study and provide consent. Those who enroll can expect to wear the device and provide feedback on its usability. This is an exciting opportunity for patients looking for new ways to manage their symptoms, as the trial is currently recruiting participants.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • Include patients who suffer from advanced PD. Characteristic symptoms of parkinsonian gait like hypokinetic movements and/or FOG have to be present.
• • Parkinsonian gait is measured by the following items of the Movement Disorder Society Unified Parkinson Disease Rating Scale (MDS-UPDRS): item 2.12, item 2.13, item 3.10 and item 3.11. The Hoehn and Yahr (HY) stage during ON is 1-4/5.
• • MoCA ≥ 22/30.
• • Participant has signed the informed consent.
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Inability of the participant to understand the IC or to follow the procedures of the study (as judged by the Qualified Physician).
• • Significantly, impaired cognitive skills render the participant unable to use the TCD.
• • Presence of severe motor fluctuations and severely impaired walking ability as defined by HY stage V during ON.
• • Clinically relevant skin lesions on the wrist or fixation points (usually the thighs).