Can targeted cognitive training alleviate symptoms of freezing of gait in patients with Parkinson's Disease?

This study aimed to trial a program of brain training to improve the symptom of freezing of gait in Parkinson's disease. Freezing of gait is a common symptom of Parkinson's disease, which leaves a patient unable to walk forward, and becoming 'stuck' on the spot. This can lead to falls and loss of independence. Unfortunately, the symptom is not well treated. Recent research suggests freezing is linked to problems with attention. Our trial therefore aimed to improve attention and other relevant processes in the brain by using computer exercises to try and reduce the severity of freezing of gait. We recruited participants who completed a 7 week program, including training twice a week. One group completed specific exercises aimed at improving attention and freezing, while another 'control group' completed more general exercises on a computer. The results showed that individuals in the group completing specific computer exercises had a reduced severity of freezing at the end of the trial, as measured by different walking exercises. The results are preliminary due to a small sample size, but are suggestive of a potentially beneficial treatment for freezing.