Vibrotactile Foot Device for Freezing of Gait in Parkinson's Disease

Launched by XUANWU HOSPITAL, BEIJING · Nov 21, 2023

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is studying a new device called the Smart shoe, which uses gentle vibrations to help improve a common problem in people with Parkinson's disease known as freezing of gait (FOG). FOG can cause individuals to suddenly feel stuck while walking, increasing the risk of falls and making everyday activities difficult. The trial aims to see if this vibrotactile foot device can help people with Parkinson's who experience FOG more than once a day, even when they are on stable medication.

To participate in this study, you need to be between 30 and 80 years old, have a diagnosis of Parkinson's disease, and experience freezing of gait regularly. You should also be able to walk at least 20 meters without assistance. During the trial, participants will wear the Smart shoe and may undergo tests to understand how the device works in the brain. If you're interested, it's a chance to help researchers learn more about managing freezing of gait and improve the quality of life for people living with Parkinson's disease.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • Age 30-80 years
• • Diagnosed with Parkinson's Disease according to MDS Clinical Diagnostic Criteria
• • Stable drug therapy without any change in the past one month
• • Subjective presence of FOG more than once per day
• • Objective presence of FOG by provoking tasks, e.g., gait initiation, rapid full turn, et al.
• • Able to walk unaided at least 20 meters
• • Provide written informed consent
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Stroke and other diseases interfering ambulation
• • Severe foot sensory impairments disabling the individual to perceive vibratory stimulation
• • History of deep brain stimulation surgery