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Completed

NCT Number: NCT07310238

Dual-Task Improvement in Parkinson's Via rTMS

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) applied to the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex on cognitive function and dual-task performance in individuals with Parkinson's disease. Participants completed ten rTMS sessions over two weeks or received sham stimulation. Cognitive status was assessed using the Montreal Cognitive Assessment, and mobility was evaluated through single-task and multiple dual-task Timed Up and Go tests. The study examined whether rTMS could enhance cognitive abilities and improve motor-cognitive performance, which are commonly impaired in Parkinson's disease and contribute to reduced functional independence. Findings indicated that rTMS led to improvements in cognition, single-task mobility, and complex dual-task performance. The intervention was well tolerated, and no adverse events related to the stimulation intensity were reported.

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Key information

Conditions

Parkinson Disease (PD) Basal Ganglia Diseases Brain Diseases Central Nervous System Diseases Cognition Disorders Dual Task Gait Disorders, Neurologic Mental Disorders Movement Disorders Nervous System Diseases Neurocognitive Disorders Neurodegenerative Diseases Neurologic Manifestations Parkinson Disease Parkinsonian Disorders Pathological Conditions, Signs and Symptoms Signs and Symptoms Synucleinopathies

Age range

65 year and older

Sex eligibility

All sexes

Study type

Interventional

Phase

Not applicable

Primary location

Gaziantep University

Gaziantep, Turkey (Türkiye)

About this study

Parkinson's disease often leads to declines in cognition, gait performance, and the ability to manage simultaneous cognitive-motor demands. These difficulties contribute to mobility limitations, fall risk, and loss of independence in older adults. This randomized controlled study investigates whether repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) targeting the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex can enhance cognitive function and improve single- and dual-task mobility performance in individuals with Parkinson's disease. Participants complete a two-week intervention consisting of active or sham stimulation. Standardized cognitive and functional mobility assessments are administered before and after the intervention to determine the extent of change associated with rTMS. The study is designed to provide preliminary evidence on whether neuromodulation of an executive-control region can support functional motor-cognitive interactions in this population.

Who can participate

Healthy volunteers accepted: No

Only the study team can determine whether someone qualifies for participation.

Inclusion criteria

  • Clinical diagnosis of Parkinson's disease.
  • Age 65 years or older.
  • Currently receiving dopaminergic therapy.
  • Ability to stand independently for at least 30 seconds.

Exclusion criteria

  • Inability to walk for 2 minutes without a walking aid.
  • Any contraindication to transcranial magnetic stimulation (e.g., metal implants in the head, history of seizures).
  • Musculoskeletal injury or structural abnormality that could affect mobility assessment.
  • Presence of another neurological disease.

Treatment and study plan

Active repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS)

Device

Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation applied to the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex using a figure-8 coil. Stimulation delivered at 5 Hz, 120% of the resting motor threshold, 600 pulses per session, for 10 sessions over two weeks.

Sham repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation

Device

Sham stimulation performed using the same coil placement, session duration, and procedures as the active rTMS condition, but without magnetic output. Sessions matched in schedule and structure to the active intervention.

Primary outcomes

  1. Change in Cognitive Function Measured by the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA)

    Time frame: Baseline and after 2 weeks of intervention

    The Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) is a validated screening tool assessing attention, executive function, memory, language, visuospatial abilities, and orientation. Scores range from 0 to 30, with higher scores indicating better cognitive performance. The outcome is defined as the change in total MoCA score from baseline to post-intervention.

Sponsors and collaborators

Lead sponsor

University of Gaziantep

Other

Registry information

Official study title

The Effect of Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation on Dual-task Performance in Patients With Parkinson's Disease

Acronym: rTMS

Important dates

Study start
2022
Primary completion
2025
Study completion
2025
First posted
Dec 30, 2025
Registry last updated
Dec 30, 2025

OpenTrials presents study information sourced from ClinicalTrials.gov. The official registry record should be consulted for the latest information.

View the official ClinicalTrials.gov record (opens in a new tab)

This listing is for discovery and informational purposes only. It is not medical advice, does not guarantee that a study is recruiting, and does not determine eligibility. Contact the study team and a qualified healthcare professional when considering participation.

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