Gamma Sensory Flicker for Parkinson's Disease Patients With Freezing of Gait
Launched by EMORY UNIVERSITY · Feb 28, 2024
Trial Information
Current as of July 24, 2025
Recruiting
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.
About Emory University
Emory University, a leading research institution located in Atlanta, Georgia, is dedicated to advancing medical knowledge and improving patient care through innovative clinical trials. With a strong emphasis on interdisciplinary collaboration, Emory harnesses the expertise of its renowned faculty and state-of-the-art facilities to conduct cutting-edge research across various fields, including oncology, neurology, and infectious diseases. The university's commitment to ethical research practices and patient safety ensures that all clinical trials are designed to generate valuable data that can lead to significant therapeutic advancements. By fostering partnerships with local hospitals and community organizations, Emory strives to translate research findings into real-world applications, ultimately enhancing health outcomes for diverse populations.
Contacts
Jennifer Cobb
Immunology at National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID)
Locations
Atlanta, Georgia, United States
Patients applied
Trial Officials
Stewart Factor, DO
Principal Investigator
Emory University
Timeline
First submit
Trial launched
Trial updated
Estimated completion
Not reported