Scientists decode gait signatures to spot brain diseases

NCT ID NCT02994719

First seen Jul 08, 2026 · Last updated Jul 09, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study examines walking patterns in people with Parkinson's disease and similar neurological conditions, as well as healthy volunteers. Researchers aim to identify unique 'gait signatures'—speed-dependent measures of walking—that could help distinguish between different disorders. Participants walk under various conditions, including on and off anti-Parkinson medication or deep brain stimulation, to see how these treatments affect gait.

What this could mean

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

What this could lead to
If successful, this could lead to better diagnostic tools for distinguishing between different neurological conditions that affect walking.
What could go wrong
This is an observational study, not a treatment trial. It may not produce clear or generalizable results due to the small number of participants and variability in gait.

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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

  • Clinical Research Center BIDMC

    Boston, Massachusetts, 02215, United States

More trials for these conditions

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