Research Investigating Gait in Parkinson's Disease

Purpose:

We are looking for participants with and without Parkinson's disease (PD) to participate in a study assessing the efficacy of footwear to improve gait and reduce falls in Parkinsonian populations. Specifically, this study will measure both balance and gait performance while wearing various footwear provided. Participants will be asked in short bouts, while wearing non-invasive motion capture technology.

Time Commitment: 1.5-2 hours total

●Over-the-phone screening session (15 mins)

●In-person testing session at Wilfrid Laurier University, Waterloo Campus - Flexible scheduling (1-1.5 hours)

What you will do:

●Walking will be observed in various provided footwear

●Participants will be asked to walk along a 10-meter walkway multiple times

●Wearing motion capture and muscle activity recording equipment

Who can participate?

●Those able to walk 10+ meters without assistive devices (walkers)

●Previous diagnosis of Parkinson's Disease (PD group only)

●Age 40+ with normal or corrected vision and hearing

●Free of other neurological conditions, and musculoskeletal, cognitive or sensory impairment

For further information or to volunteer, please contact Patrick Crowley, Graduate Researcher.

Email: crow5320@mylaurier.ca

Contact Number: 416-562-5939

Supervisor: Dr. Stephen D. Perry, PHD

Department of Kinesiology and Physical Education, Wilfrid Laurier University

This project has been reviewed and approved by the University Research Ethics Board (REB) #9334