Shocking the inner ear: a new hope for Parkinson's balance problems?

NCT ID NCT05446194

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

Summary

This study looked at whether inner ear problems cause balance issues in Parkinson's disease and if a headset that stimulates the inner ear can help. 72 people with Parkinson's took part. They received a 20-minute stimulation session while researchers measured freezing of gait and balance. The goal is to find a new way to ease these symptoms without medication.

What this could mean

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

Active substance

non-invasive neuromodulation device (headset delivering electrical stimulation to the inner ear)

What this could lead to

If it works, this could point toward a new, non-drug way to improve balance and reduce freezing of gait in people with Parkinson's disease.

What could go wrong

This is a small, early-stage study (72 people) testing different stimulation patterns. The device may not improve symptoms, and results may not apply to all Parkinson's patients.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

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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.

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • University of Michigan

    Ann Arbor, Michigan, 48106, United States