Spinal Implants May Revolutionise Walking Rehabilitation in Parkinson’s Disease? (BBC News / Parkinson’s UK)

Summary

Canadian researchers working with electrical stimulation to the spines of chronic Parkinson’s Disease patients have discovered a technique to improve mobility and reduce the risk of falls.

The implants improve feedback signals returning back up to the brain.

“[Benefit from] the treatment was long-lasting and worked even when the implant was turned off”.

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Reference

Ghosh, P. (2019). Parkinson’s results beyond researchers’ wildest dreams. London: BBC Health News / BBC Science and Environment News, April 22^nd 2019.

Further commentary:

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Reference

Experimental spinal stimulation shows promise for reducing freezing. London: Parkinson’s UK, April 23^rd 2019.

This relates to:

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Reference

Samotus, O. Parrent, A. [and] Jog, M. (2019). Spinal cord stimulation therapy for gait dysfunction in advanced Parkinson’s Disease patients. Movement Disorders. May 2018; 33(5): 783-792.