NCT07382674 · Emory University
Zesty Exercise System for Therapeutic Engagement
(ZEST-E)
What this study is about
This study will evaluate exercise delivered through the Zesty Exercise System for Therapeutic Engagement (ZEST-E) for people with Parkinson's disease when sessions are monitored either in person or remotely. Participants will complete robot-guided exercise three times per week for three weeks.
View original scientific description
This study will evaluate exercise delivered through the Zesty Exercise System for Therapeutic Engagement (ZEST-E) for people with Parkinson's disease when sessions are monitored either in person or remotely. Participants will complete robot-guided exercise three times per week for three weeks. The study will assess feasibility, retention, safety, acceptability, and tolerability of remotely monitored ZEST-E and will measure changes in functional performance using the Standing Forward Reach test and the 30-Second Chair Stand test. These outcomes reflect range of motion and lower-body strength targeted by the exercise program.
Interventions
DEVICE
ZEST-E Robot-Assisted Exercise Program
Participants complete robot-guided exercises using the ZEST-E system. Sessions include reaching, stretching, and dual-task movements for upper and lower limbs. Before each exercise, participants view a video demonstration or receive instruction from staff. ZEST-E presents targets to tap with hands, feet, or knees and uses calibration and practice trials to set positions. The robot operates with force-limited controls, back-drivable joints, and an emergency run-stop button. Participants may request to stop the robot at any time. All participants begin with seated exercises in week 1 and may progress to standing exercises in weeks 2-3 after completing a safety tutorial. Safety supports such as mats, chairs, and gait belts are used during standing tasks. Training will consist of 1-hour bouts, 3 times/week for 3 weeks
Primary outcome measures
Standing Forward Reach (SFR) Test
Time frame: Baseline, after 3 weeks
This test measures forward reach distance while standing to assess range of motion and postural control. Greater reach distance indicates improved mobility.
30-Second Chair Stand Test
Time frame: Baseline, after 3 weeks
Number of full sit-to-stand repetitions completed in 30 seconds. Higher counts indicate greater lower-body strength
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
- -Older adults with mild to moderate PD.
Exclusion criteria
- Acute medical illness requiring hospitalization;
- Under 40 years old;
- Uncontrolled congestive heart failure;
- History of stroke in the past three years;
- Inability to perform study procedures;
- Medical or physical conditions that would preclude participation (e.g., severe arthritis or mobility problems, uncontrolled hypertension or diabetes, renal failure, history of angina with activity);
- On medications that could adversely affect cognition, e.g.: antipsychotics, opioids, stimulants, chemotherapy;
- Psychotic disorders;
- Confounding neurologic conditions (e.g., active central nervous system opportunistic infections, seizure disorders, head injury with loss of consciousness \>30 minutes, intracranial neoplasms, stroke with neurological or neuropsychiatric sequelae);
- Substance Use Disorder, Major Depressive and Generalized Anxiety Disorders within six months of evaluation;
- Hohn \& Yahr \> 3
Where
- Atlanta, Georgia
Collaborators
Georgia Clinical & Translational Science Alliance
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 May 26, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations