Steering brain stimulation could ease Parkinson's symptoms
NCT ID NCT03548506
First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026
Summary
This study tested two types of deep brain stimulation in 20 people with Parkinson's disease: standard omnidirectional stimulation and a newer directional steering method. The goal was to see if steering the stimulation could better control motor symptoms like muscle rigidity. Participants received both types in a randomized, double-blind crossover design, and the researchers measured effects using muscle activity and clinical rating scales.
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 device
- What this could lead to
- If successful, this could lead to more precise deep brain stimulation that better controls Parkinson's motor symptoms with fewer side effects.
- What could go wrong
- This is a small, early-stage study with only 20 participants, so results may not apply to all Parkinson's patients. The benefits of directional stimulation over standard stimulation are still uncertain.
This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.
Get updates
Get notified about this study
Sign up to get updates when this study changes or when new studies for IDIOPATHIC PARKINSON´S DISEASE are added.
By submitting, you agree to our Terms of use
Conditions
The condition(s) this trial relates to.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
Locations
-
University Hospital Tuebingen, Dep. of Neurosurgery (Functional Neurosurgery) and Neurology (Neurodegenerative Diseases)
Tübingen, Baden-Wurttemberg, 72076, Germany
More trials for these conditions
Other studies related to the condition(s) this trial covers.
- Planning ahead: could a simple program transform Parkinson's care?
- Sound waves vs. Parkinson's: can ultrasound calm tremors and stiffness?
- Can a nudge in your chart unlock Life-Saving genetic clues?
- Can MRI reveal the Brain's response to deep brain stimulation?
- Can we outsmart Gaucher's hidden toll on lungs, bones, and brain?
- Could a brain disease change behavior years before diagnosis?