Improvements in Balance and Gait Using a Stochastic Noise Stimulator: Short Term Response
Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary
Summary
The goal of this intervention study is to determine if a new electronic stimulation device, similar to a TENS can improve balance and make walking easier in older individuals with reduced balance function. The main question aims to answer the following: Can using the device improve walking speed in older individuals? Participants will be asked to perform a number of tasks while wearing the device: Walk for 6 minutes * Stand in place while having balance measured (eyes open and closed) * Stand on a foam block while having balance measured (eyes open and closed) * Sit in a chair that will tilt +/- 20 degrees while wearing goggles that take videos of the participants eyes.
Description
Neural degeneration with age and disease is a recognized and critical problem in health. Despite the significant problems associated with neural degenerative diseases and effects of aging, there remains a lack of effective treatments. An important neural system used daily is the vestibular system. The vestibular system provides continual information on our location in space and is integral to balance, locomotion, daily activities and quality of life. Our lab and others have demonstrated that with increasing age there is a loss of vestibular function that is associated with increased incidence…
Eligibility
- Age range
- 21+ years
- Sex
- All
- Healthy volunteers
- Yes
Inclusion Criteria Older (ages 60+) and younger (aged 21-59) participants with no significant health history will be recruited from the community. Exclusion Criteria Any person with a self-reported history of: * impaired proprioception * significant eye problems * neuromuscular disease * seizure * stroke * unmedicated diabetes * cardiovascular disease (except controlled hypertension) * renal disease or electrolyte imbalance * orthopedic disorders such as severe neck or back pain * uncontrolled high blood pressure (200/110 or greater) * implanted electronic devices (pacemakers, defibrillator…
Interventions
- DeviceSubperceptual Stimulus
For each test participants will be stimulated using a subperceptual electric signal that is optimized to improve their gait.
- DeviceSham Comparator
During intervention trial, sham comparator will consist of same stimulation device but no actual electrical stimulation will be provided by device during intervention trial.
Locations (2)
- Johns Hopkins MedicineBaltimore, Maryland
- Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Harvard Medical SchoolBoston, Massachusetts