NCT06562569 · VA Office of Research and Development
Non-invasive VNS for Parkinson's Gait
What this study is about
More than 110,000 US Veterans living with Parkinson's disease (PD) currently receive PD-related care and services from the VA. Fall prevention is a priority for Veterans living PD. Gait disturbances are a major cause for functional dependence and the largest risk factor for falls, institutionalization, and death in PD.
View original scientific description
More than 110,000 US Veterans living with Parkinson's disease (PD) currently receive PD-related care and services from the VA. Fall prevention is a priority for Veterans living PD. Gait disturbances are a major cause for functional dependence and the largest risk factor for falls, institutionalization, and death in PD. This SPiRE addresses the need to advance nonpharmacological rehabilitative health care of Veterans and maximizing functional outcomes by developing a non-invasive, neuromodulatory transcutaneous cervical Vagal Nerve Stimulation as an at-home intervention to improve gait and balance. This pilot clinical trial will assist with future efforts and priorities of the VA to prolong independent living and quality of life by minimizing gait and balance dysfunction experienced by Veterans living with PD.
Interventions
DEVICE
non-invasive cervical vagal nerve stimulation ncVNS
The ncVNS device is a rechargable, handheld device that generate a proprietary frequency-modulated electrical stimulus at low voltage (max 24V) with a max current output of 60mA. The signal consists of 1ms bursts of 5kHz sine waves repeated at 25Hz. Two stainless steel contact surfaces coated with conductive gel deliver the stimulus to the neck in the vicinity of the vagus nerve.
Primary outcome measures
Stride Length
Time frame: baseline and 4 weeks
Quantitative gait analysis will be performed during a 15-meter instrumented 2-min walk test (2MWT) using the APDM Mobility Lab
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
- Parkinson's disease, as diagnosis by a VA neurologist
- HY stages 2-3
- Self-report Freezing of Gait
- Able to ambulate for 2-min without an assistive device
- Parkinson's disease medications are stable for 4-weeks and expected to be on stable medications for duration of the study
Exclusion criteria
- For Group 1 and 2
- Lack of decision-making capacity
- Prescribed centrally acting anticholinergics (e.g., amitriptyline) or cholinesterase inhibitors
- Musculoskeletal or additional neurological conditions that negatively impact gait and balance
- Spine or LE surgery within the past year
- Uncontrolled hypertension, hypotension, bradycardia, or tachycardia
- History of baseline cardiac disease or atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, including congestive heart failure, known severe coronary artery disease, severe carotid stenosis (e.g., bruits or history of TIA or stroke), or recent myocardial infarction (within 5 years).
- Abnormal baseline electrocardiogram within last year
- Previous vagotomy
- Implanted metal cervical spine hardware, other metallic implants or implantable medical devices such as DBS
- Active cancer
- have previously had cancer in any areas where stimulation will occur
- Documented abnormal cervical anatomy
- History of brain tumor, aneurysm, bleed or head trauma
- History of syncope or seizures (within the last 2 years) For Group 3
- Lack of decision-making capacity
- Musculoskeletal or additional neurological conditions that negatively impact gait and balance
- Spine or LE surgery within the past year
Where
- Hines, Illinois
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 9, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations