Actively Recruiting
Effects of Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation Over the Supplementary Motor Area Combined With Nordic Walking on Gait and Balance in Parkinson's Disease
Led by Universidade Metodista de Piracicaba · Updated on 2026-02-02
40
Participants Needed
1
Research Sites
4 weeks
Total Duration
On this page
AI-Summary
What this Trial Is About
This research aims to evaluate whether adding a gentle, non-invasive brain stimulation called transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) during a supervised Nordic Walking program can improve walking speed and balance in people with Parkinson's disease. The study focuses on adults with idiopathic Parkinson's disease who have slowed gait and balance problems that increase their risk of falls. Researchers will compare active tDCS with a sham (inactive) procedure to see if tDCS enhances the effects of walking training. Participants will be randomly assigned to one of two groups: one receives active anodal tDCS over the supplementary motor area (SMA) while doing a standardized 30-minute Nordic Walking session, and the other receives sham tDCS with the same walking program. The tDCS is given at 2.0 mA for 20 minutes during walking sessions, three times per week for four weeks (12 sessions total). Both groups follow identical walking routines supervised by trained staff, including warm-up, continuous walking with poles, and cool-down. During the study, participants will be assessed at baseline, after the 4-week intervention, and at a 1-month follow-up. Researchers will measure walking speed using the 10-Meter Walk Test as the main outcome, along with balance tests, motor symptoms, quality of life, and any side effects. Safety monitoring includes checking vital signs and skin condition before and after sessions. Adherence and side effects are tracked throughout, and the study will evaluate whether tDCS combined with walking improves mobility and balance more than walking alone.
CONDITIONS
Brief Title
Effects of Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation Combined With Nordic Walking on Gait and Balance in Parkinson's Disease
Who Can Participate
Eligibility Criteria
You may qualify if you...
- Idiopathic Parkinson's disease (e.g., UK Brain Bank criteria)
- Hoehn & Yahr stage II-IV while on medication
- Stable antiparkinsonian medication for at least 4 weeks before enrollment
- Slowed gait phenotype (6 seconds or more on 10-Meter Walk at preferred speed)
- Able to walk at least 10 meters with or without a cane or poles without hands-on assistance
- Able to follow simple commands and provide written informed consent (MMSE 24 or higher)
- Willing to maintain stable Parkinson's medication and usual care during the 4-week intervention unless medically necessary
You will not qualify if you...
- Implanted cranial or brain devices (e.g., DBS), metal in the skull (excluding dental), or active skin disease/lesions at electrode sites
- Uncontrolled epilepsy or seizure history within the past 12 months
- Unstable medical or psychiatric conditions preventing safe participation (e.g., uncontrolled hypertension, recent cardiovascular events, severe orthostatic hypotension with syncope)
- Severe freezing of gait or fall risk preventing safe Nordic Walking
- Severe musculoskeletal or vestibular disorders limiting walking with poles
- Severe uncorrected visual impairment
- Cognitive impairment incompatible with consent or testing (MMSE below 24)
- Current participation in other interventional trials targeting gait, balance, or brain stimulation
- Recent initiation or dose change of antiparkinsonian medication within 4 weeks
AI-Screening
AI-Powered Screening
Complete this quick 3-step screening to check your eligibility
Your Study Journey
Duration - 2 to 4 weeks
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial.
1 visit (in-person)
Duration - 4 weeks
Participants receive either active or sham transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) over the supplementary motor area combined with a standardized Nordic Walking program. Sessions are supervised and include warm-up, walking with poles, and cool-down.
3 visits per week (in-person) for a total of 12 sessions
Duration - 1 month
Participants are assessed 1 month after completing the treatment to evaluate maintenance of effects on gait, balance, and motor function.
1 visit (in-person)
Trial Site Locations
Total: 1 location
1
UEAFTO - Unidade de Fisioterapia e Terapia Ocupacional
Belém, Pará, Brazil, 66087-670
Actively Recruiting
How is the study designed?
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Masking
QUADRUPLE
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Model
PARALLEL
Primary Purpose
TREATMENT
Number of Arms
2
Similar Trials
Frequently Asked Questions
Have more questions? Get in touch with our team for quick support
Not the Right Trial for You?
Explore thousands of other clinical trials that might be a better match.
Sign up to get personalized trial recommendations delivered to your inbox.
Already have an account? Log in here