NCT06911229 · University of Florida
Neurophysiology of Locomotor Adaptation and Freezing of Gait in Parkinson's Disease
What this study is about
Locomotor adaptation will be studied using an established split-belt treadmill paradigm, consisting of baseline (1:1 speed ratio), split-belt adaptation (2:1) and post-adaptation (1:1) walking. Split-belt walking will be performed under DBS ON and DBS OFF conditions, while off-medication.
View original scientific description
Locomotor adaptation will be studied using an established split-belt treadmill paradigm, consisting of baseline (1:1 speed ratio), split-belt adaptation (2:1) and post-adaptation (1:1) walking. Split-belt walking will be performed under DBS ON and DBS OFF conditions, while off-medication.
Interventions
DEVICE
Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS)
Patients will receive DBS in the clinically-optimized setting.
Primary outcome measures
Step length rate of adaptation
Time frame: 1 hour
The rate of adaptation in step length asymmetry is estimated by fitting an exponential decay function to step length asymmetry over the first 100 strides in adaptation.
Step length magnitude of adaptation
Time frame: 1 hour
The magnitude of adaptation in step length asymmetry is calculated as the mean difference in step length asymmetry between early and late adaptation.
Step length after-effects
Time frame: 1 hour
The after-effect in step length asymmetry is calculated as the mean difference in step length asymmetry between baseline and early post-adaptation.
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- consensus diagnosis of idiopathic PD by fellowship trained movement disorders neurologists at the Normal Fixel Institute of Neurological Diseases;
- chronically stable DBS, defined as having had DBS for at least 6 months in duration with optimized DBS settings;
- Age between 18 - 80 years old per the FDA data sheet for PD DBS;
- no dementia according to the clinical diagnostic criteria for PD dementia;
- ambulatory without the use of walking aids, or another person's assistance.
Exclusion criteria
- other previous neurological surgery;
- suspicion of other neurologic diagnoses such as atypical parkinsonism, or Alzheimer's disease.
Where
- Gainesville, Florida
Collaborators
National Institute on Aging (NIA)
Related conditions & keywords
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Jul 15, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations