Studying Gait

When I look back upon this day in future, I am hopeful that I will recognize it as a major positive turning point in George’s Parkinson’s journey.  After patiently waiting to be included in this trial for several months, it finally began!

The official title of the study is “Quantifying Motor Behaviors of Individuals with Parkinson’s Disease.”  George’s neurologist partnered with University of Tennessee Department of Engineering to develop a technique to employ sensors to collect data about his motion quality (e.g., acceleration, speed).   Sensors were attached to his wrists, his ankles, and around his waist.  The researcher observed him using a walker to walk up and down a hallway, to turn, and repeat the process several times.

Thanks to his increased activity lately which included more walks, George handled the first part of the study with relative ease.  He usually needs the assistance of a walker to ensure stable movement, and the doctor provided one of the “old style” walkers that only has wheels on the front.  It was harder to maneuver than the walker he uses at home; however, he did it.  (I think he was highly motivated to “perform well!”)  There was only one time during the hour-long test where he needed to stop, sit, and rest.  I was very proud of him for his good attitude.

Part 2 of the study will involve a return to the doctor’s office to have sensors applied for use at home.  Then, over a seven-day period, he will wear sensors and perform various at-home tasks.  All of that data will also be collected for future study.

An important goal of this study is to learn if the neurologist and patient can accurately predict when “off” or “freezing” times will occur during a typical day.  This will be invaluable for finding ways to switch those “off periods” to more fluid movements.  Even though this study is still in its early stages, I can see great benefits, not only to George but also to other people with Parkinson’s.

If you are like me, you are a technology fan.  Participating in this study made me UT Engineering’s  “Number 1 Fan!”