Physical therapy approaches for balance and walking deficits in Parkinson's disease (PD) have limited effectiveness, with mostly short-lasting benefits. An exoskeleton is a device that straps to the legs and provides a passive force to assist people to better ambulate. The goal of this study is to establish the feasibility and safety of a lightweight exoskeleton on mobility and fall reduction in people with PD. As most PD patients eventually require assistive mobility devices, the exoskeleton represents a new option for increased, mobility, quality of life, and independence. Qualified subjects will come to the clinic twice weekly for six weeks (12 total visits) and wear the exoskeleton device while walking under the supervision of a trained physical therapist. Study staff will also interview participants and assess their PD symptoms, quality of life, and overall mobility. This study hopes to establish exoskeletons as modern, standard of care devices, which allow people with PD to maintain more independent and productive lives.
Parkinson's Disease
Physical therapy approaches for balance and walking deficits in Parkinson's disease (PD) have limited effectiveness, with mostly short-lasting benefits. An exoskeleton is a device that straps to the legs and provides a passive force to assist people to better ambulate. The goal of this study is to establish the feasibility and safety of a lightweight exoskeleton on mobility and fall reduction in people with PD. As most PD patients eventually require assistive mobility devices, the exoskeleton represents a new option for increased, mobility, quality of life, and independence. Qualified subjects will come to the clinic twice weekly for six weeks (12 total visits) and wear the exoskeleton device while walking under the supervision of a trained physical therapist. Study staff will also interview participants and assess their PD symptoms, quality of life, and overall mobility. This study hopes to establish exoskeletons as modern, standard of care devices, which allow people with PD to maintain more independent and productive lives.
Feasibility and Safety of a Portable Exoskeleton to Improve Mobility in Parkinson's Disease
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Hunter Holmes McGuire VA Medical Center, Richmond, VA, Richmond, Virginia, United States, 23249-0001
Researchers look for people who fit a certain description, called eligibility criteria. Some examples of these criteria are a person's general health condition or prior treatments.
For general information about clinical research, read Learn About Studies.
18 Years to 90 Years
ALL
No
VA Office of Research and Development,
Mark S Baron, MD, PRINCIPAL_INVESTIGATOR, Hunter Holmes McGuire VA Medical Center, Richmond, VA
2025-12-31