Receive brain stimulation combined with walking exercises for Parkinson's freezing

What is this trial?

This study is testing whether repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS)—a safe, non-invasive form of brain stimulation—combined with walking exercises can help people with Parkinson's disease who experience freezing of gait. Freezing of gait is a symptom where people suddenly feel stuck and unable to start walking, even though they want to move. The researchers want to see if this treatment is safe, tolerable, and whether it can help reduce freezing episodes and improve walking ability.

Freezing of gait is a disabling symptom that significantly impacts quality of life for people with Parkinson's disease, and current treatment options are limited. This trial explores whether combining brain stimulation with walking exercises could offer a new, practical way to help people manage this challenging symptom.

Do you qualify?

You likely qualify if…

you are between 50 and 80 years old
you have been diagnosed with Parkinson's disease using standard diagnostic criteria
you have experienced freezing of gait in the past month
you have not changed your Parkinson's medications in the month before enrolling
your freezing of gait is observed and documented by the research team

You likely don't qualify if…

you have other significant walking problems unrelated to Parkinson's disease, such as orthopedic issues
you cannot walk or complete walking tests without assistance or special devices
you have implanted electronic devices like pacemakers or metallic fragments in your body
you have a history of seizures or certain mental health conditions that would affect your ability to consent or follow study instructions
you are pregnant or have a history of claustrophobia that would prevent you from having an MRI scan

What participation looks like

You would attend up to 15 study visits over about 16 weeks (with options to combine visits to reduce burden). At the start and end of the study, you'll have brain imaging (MRI) scans to guide treatment and measure results. During the treatment phase, you'll receive brain stimulation sessions delivered through a safe coil placed on your scalp, followed by guided walking exercises with cognitive tasks. Throughout the study, you'll complete walking assessments, wear small motion sensors, and answer questionnaires about how you're doing and any side effects.

Brain stimulation and walking exercises for Parkinson's freezing of gait

What is this trial?

Do you qualify?

What participation looks like

Trial locations(1 site)