Using Thoracic Epidural Spinal Cord Stimulation to Improve Freezing of Gait in Advanced Parkinsons Disease Patients

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are exploring the use of spinal cord stimulation SCS to help patients with advanced Parkinsons disease who experience non-responsive Freezing of Gait nrFOG, a condition where usual medications do not control gait freezing. This approach is being studied because SCS has shown promise in relieving pain and improving motor symptoms in Parkinsons patients. The study aims to evaluate if temporary, minimally invasive thoracic epidural SCS electrodes can improve stability and reduce fall risk in these patients. The study involves placing stimulation electrodes in the thoracic spine area to provide electrical pulses at different frequencies 300Hz, 130Hz, and 60Hz to assess their effects. Participants will receive SCS electrode stimulation with these settings to observe changes in gait and balance. This is an interventional device study conducted by National Taiwan University Hospital, starting September 2024 and continuing through December 2027. Participants will be monitored closely over a week, with gait parameters such as foot rotation, step length, stride length, step width, stance and swing phases, double stance phase, step and stride time, cadence, and velocity measured on Days 0, 2, 3, 4, and 7. Clinical scales and scores will also be assessed at these intervals. The study aims to track improvements or changes in walking stability and Parkinsons symptoms during this period to evaluate the impact of SCS treatment.

Application of Thoracic Epidural SCS for Managing FOG in Patients With Advanced Parkinson's Disease