Treating Balance Impairment in Older Adults Using TMS-Induced Brain Connectivity Changes

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are investigating whether using a technique called transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), which uses magnets to affect brain activity, can help improve balance in older adults who have balance problems and a history of falls. The study aims to understand how TMS changes communication between different brain areas and whether it can improve balance ability compared to a placebo treatment. This early phase study focuses on adults aged 65 and older who have experienced falls, as balance impairment greatly increases fall risk and can reduce quality of life. Participants will be randomly assigned to one of two groups: one group will receive real TMS treatment, and the other will receive sham (placebo) TMS. Both interventions are delivered once daily, five days a week, over a four-week period. Each participant will also undergo an MRI scan and baseline assessments of brain connectivity using electroencephalography (EEG) and balance testing. EEG and balance assessments will be repeated immediately after the intervention and again three months later to track any changes. During the study, participants will visit the laboratory three times for assessments before, immediately after, and three months following the intervention. Researchers will measure brain connectivity through EEG and assess balance using the miniBESTest and other balance confidence and foot pressure tests. The study monitors participants closely for safety and effectiveness of the TMS intervention over the course of several months. Total study participation spans at least three months after completing the treatment sessions.

Examining the Effects of Theta Burst TMS on Brain Connectivity and Balance Ability in Older Adults With Balance Problems