Using a Wearable Leg Stimulation Device to Improve Mobility of Veterans with Parkinson’s

​Principal Investigator: Dr. Kalea Colletta

Disease: Parkinson’s disease

Research Description: Each year, roughly 1 million people in the US alone are diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease (PD), a neurological disorder impacting a person’s ability to walk and live independently. Current medications help with some symptoms but are less effective at improving walking, speed, balance and reducing freezing episodes. The Cionic Neural Sleeve, a wearable device approved for other neurological disorders and injuries, such as multiple sclerosis, traumatic brain injury, stroke and more, uses electrical stimulation to cue leg muscles and assist movement. This open label, crossover pilot trial is examining if this leg sleeve can improve walking and freezing episodes in veterans with PD. If successful, this may significantly reduce falls, improve balance and the overall quality of life for PD patients.

Funding Partners: The Searle Funds at The Chicago Community Trust and others

Initial CWR Funding Role: Primary