Basal Ganglia Contributions to Transitions in Freezing of Gait and Parkinsons Disease

What this Trial Is About

This research investigates the causes and signs of freezing of gait FOG in people with Parkinsons disease PD. It focuses on understanding the underlying brain activity and biomarkers associated with FOG and how cues may improve movement. The study uses the Medtronic Percept22 deep brain stimulation DBS system, a device approved by the FDA, to measure local field potentials LFPs in individuals with PD, both with and without FOG, through three separate experiments. Participants will be grouped based on their PD diagnosis and whether they experience FOG. The study compares brain activity during different movement tasks gait initiation with and without cues, movement transitions versus freezing events during a provocation course, and rapid alternating wrist or foot movements. Participants will have their Parkinsons medications withheld for 12 to 24 hours before testing and their DBS device turned off at the start of visits. During the study visits, researchers will assess various movement and brain activity measures, including magnitude and duration of anticipatory postural adjustments, step characteristics, coherence between brain areas and muscles, number of freezing episodes, and rapid alternating movements. These measurements help understand how brain signals relate to movement issues in PD. Participants must be able to walk independently and have an implanted Medtronic Percept DBS device. The study includes safety monitoring and consent capacity assessments throughout participation.

Percept Transitions in FOG and PD