Individuals who underwent deep brain stimulator (DBS) surgery for PD will complete the V-GAIT modules. V-GAIT modules combine a virtual reality (VR) headset and a omnidirectional treadmill that allows the user to start, stop, and turn. Wires from the DBS will be externalized, or come out through the skin. The externalized wires will be used to read neural data from the DBS lead. This allows the researchers to examine the neural signal in the subthalamic nucleus (STN). If the participant has a Medtronic Percept DBS system, the wires will not be externalized. During episodes of freezing of gait, the neural recording will be used to identify specific neural signatures. This project will allow medical professionals and researchers to understand the mechanism behind freezing of gait and eventually improve care.
The project uses virtual reality technology to recreate situations that cause freezing of gait in individuals with Parkinson's disease. Individuals who underwent deep brain stimulator (DBS) surgery for Parkinson's disease will walk through a virtual reality environment while brain signals are recorded from the DBS device. The goal is to better understand what occurs in the brain during freezing of gait.