Gamma Sensory Flicker for Parkinson's Disease Patients With Freezing of Gait

Launched by EMORY UNIVERSITY · Feb 28, 2024

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is studying the effects of gamma light on people with Parkinson's disease who experience a specific walking problem called Freezing of Gait (FOG). FOG is when a person's feet seem to get "stuck" to the floor, making it hard to start walking or turn, which can lead to falls and loss of independence. The researchers want to find out if daily exposure to gamma light for one hour can help reduce the severity of FOG and if it's safe for patients to use.

To participate in this study, individuals must be between 50 and 75 years old, have a confirmed diagnosis of Parkinson's disease, and experience FOG. They must also be able to manage a period without their usual Parkinson's medication. Participants can expect to attend appointments where their condition will be monitored, and they will receive information about using the gamma light. It’s important to note that certain health conditions may exclude someone from joining the trial, so interested individuals should review the eligibility criteria carefully.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • PD Diagnosis by UK Brain Bank Criteria
• • Hoehn \& Yahr stage I-IV in the off-state
• • FOG noted in medical history
• • FOG confirmed visually by the examiner in the office
• • PD that is levodopa-treated and responsive
• • Able to manage 12 hours of "OFF" dopaminergic medication state
• • Age 50-80 years
• • Able to sign a consent document and willing to participate in all aspects of the study
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • A diagnosis of atypical Parkinsonism, including vascular Parkinsonism
• • Prior treatment with medications that cause Parkinsonism
• • Stage V PD -unable to walk independently when OFF
• • Absence of levodopa response
• • Neurological or orthopedic disorders interfering with gait
• • Dementia precluding completing the study protocol, including those meeting criteria for dementia with Lewy bodies
• • Major depression based on the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) criteria
• • Any medical problems that would preclude participation, including individuals with a history of migraines, tinnitus, or seizures, because sensory stimuli can potentially exacerbate these conditions.
• • Profound sensory loss as determined by the investigator.