Recruiting

Stimulating the Vagus Nerve to Help Walking in Veterans With Parkinson's

Plain-English translation of NCT06562569 on ClinicalTrials.gov ↗ · Source last updated July 2026 · Translation generated July 2026 · How we translate trials

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This study doesn't follow the usual testing phases — it may be an observational study or a different type of research.

What is this trial?

This trial is testing a non-invasive vagal nerve stimulation (ncVNS) device—a handheld tool you apply to the left side of your neck—to see if it can help improve walking and reduce freezing of gait in Veterans with Parkinson's disease. The device is already approved to treat migraines, and researchers believe it may help reduce inflammation and improve brain signaling related to movement. You would use this treatment at home for a few minutes each day over 4 weeks.

Walking problems and freezing of gait are among the most disabling symptoms of Parkinson's disease and a major cause of falls and loss of independence in Veterans. Current medications don't adequately address these walking problems, so researchers are testing this non-invasive, at-home treatment as a new option that might complement existing care.

Do you qualify?

You likely qualify if…

you have been diagnosed with Parkinson's disease by a VA neurologist
you experience freezing of gait—moments when your feet feel 'stuck' and you can't start or continue walking, especially when turning
you are able to walk for at least 2 minutes without using an assistive device like a cane or walker
your Parkinson's medications have been stable for at least 4 weeks and are expected to remain stable during the study
you are at Hoehn and Yahr stages 2 or 3 (moderate disease severity)

You likely don't qualify if…

you have significant heart disease, heart rhythm problems, or a recent heart attack (within 5 years)
you have had spine surgery or lower leg surgery in the past year
you have metal implants in your neck or spine, or implanted medical devices like a deep brain stimulation device
you are currently taking certain medications that affect nerve signaling (like amitriptyline or cholinesterase inhibitors)
you have a history of seizures or fainting spells in the last 2 years

What participation looks like

If you're selected, you'll be randomly assigned to one of three groups: one group will use the neck stimulation device at a low intensity for 2 minutes daily, another will use it at a higher tolerated intensity for 12 minutes daily, and a third group will continue with their usual care as a comparison. All stimulation is done at home by you, and the entire study lasts 4 weeks. Researchers will measure your walking ability, balance, and freezing episodes before, during, and after the study period.

AI-generated summary from trial data · Jul 18, 2026 · Not medical advice

Stimulating the Vagus Nerve to Help Walking in Veterans With Parkinson's

What is this trial?

Do you qualify?

What participation looks like

Trial locations