The Long Term Efficacy of High Frequency Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation on Postural Stability in Parkinsonian Patients

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating how high frequency repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) may improve postural instability, a disabling symptom in Parkinson's disease (PD) that leads to frequent falls and loss of independence. This study focuses on patients aged 55 to 70 years with mild to moderate PD, aiming to assess the long-term effects of this treatment on balance and stability. Participants will be randomly assigned to one of two groups: one receiving a designed physical therapy program including aerobic exercise, stretching, proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation techniques, active exercises, gait training, and weight shifting exercises three times a week for four weeks; the other receiving the same physical therapy plus 12 sessions of high frequency rTMS over the primary motor cortex also three times a week for four weeks. The rTMS sessions last 20 to 30 minutes and are delivered using a specialized device. During the study, researchers will measure balance using the Biodex balance system before treatment, immediately after, and at one-month follow-up. They will assess stability indices including overall, anteroposterior, and mediolateral balance, as well as directional control and time to complete balance tests. The study lasts for six months, with ongoing monitoring to evaluate the lasting effects of the interventions on postural stability.

6 Month Follow up Study on the Changes of Postural Stability in Parkinsonian Patients in Response to High Frequency TMS.