Brain stimulator that thinks on its feet shows promise for Parkinson's freezing

NCT ID NCT04043403

Completed Disease control Sponsor: Stanford University Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026

Summary

This study tested a new type of deep brain stimulation (DBS) that adapts in real time to help people with Parkinson's disease who experience freezing of gait—a sudden inability to move their feet. Standard DBS delivers constant stimulation, but this adaptive system uses brain signals or leg movement sensors to adjust stimulation as needed. Twelve participants were enrolled to see if the approach is safe and feasible.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: Deep brain stimulation (DBS) device that adjusts stimulation based on brain signals or movement
What this could lead to: If successful, this approach could lead to a more responsive DBS system that reduces freezing episodes and improves mobility for people with Parkinson's.
What could go wrong: This was a small feasibility study with only 12 participants, so results may not apply to everyone. The adaptive system is still experimental and may not work better than standard DBS.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Parkinson disease

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

PARKINSON DISEASE

Contacts and locations

Locations

Stanford University

Stanford, California, 94305, United States

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