Can physiotherapy boost brain implant benefits for Parkinson's patients?

NCT ID NCT04953637

Ongoing Disease control Sponsor: University of Toronto Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 26, 2026 · Last updated Jun 26, 2026

Summary

This study looks at whether adding physiotherapy to deep brain stimulation (DBS) can improve how people with Parkinson's disease move around their community. DBS helps with stiffness and tremors, but past studies found it didn't improve mobility and even increased falls. The trial will give 60 participants gait and balance training three times a week for eight weeks, measuring changes in how far they travel from home.

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 and physiotherapy
What this could lead to: If successful, this could show that combining physiotherapy with DBS helps people with Parkinson's move around their community more safely and independently.
What could go wrong: This is a small, early-stage study with only 60 participants. Past research found DBS alone did not improve community mobility and even increased fall risk, so adding physiotherapy may not overcome those issues.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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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

Movement Disorders Centre - Toronto Western Hospital

Toronto, Ontario, M5T 2S8, Canada

More trials for these conditions

Other studies related to the condition(s) this trial covers.