Is it possible to resist Parkinson’s disease? These dedicated research participants are optimistic about the prospect.
Several years before his retirement, David Campbell observed an unusual phenomenon while typing. Whenever he pressed a letter, such as “a,” he would get “aaa,” as if the keyboard was malfunctioning or his finger was inadvertently triple-tapping the key. However, this was not the sole anomaly; concurrently, he noticed a decline in his sense of smell. These seemingly trivial issues later proved to be significant, as Campbell was subsequently diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease after retiring in the fall of 2020.
Parkinson’s disease, a neurodegenerative disorder affecting between 500,000 and 1 million Americans, presents various symptoms, including tremors, diminished sense of smell, quieter voice, slower movement, and stiffness in limbs and facial expressions. While therapeutic interventions and medications offer relief, there is currently no cure for the condition. Individuals such as Campbell, facing the challenges of Parkinson’s, often seek ways to contribute positively to research and treatment advancements.
In response to his diagnosis, Campbell, a former laboratory engineer at Boston University, joined a support group and volunteered for research studies aiming to enhance treatment strategies and potentially discover a cure. His involvement, along with that of other volunteers, has been instrumental in recent breakthroughs at Boston University’s Center for Neurorehabilitation.
Researchers at the center, a prominent hub for Parkinson’s research, education, and clinical care, have made notable progress with the assistance of volunteers like Campbell. In one study, wearable soft robotic apparel, consisting of fabric wraps, cables, actuators, and sensors, proved effective in enabling patients to walk farther and faster. Another study employed music-based technology, using beats per minute to improve walking duration and distance for individuals with Parkinson’s.
Situated at BU Sargent College of Health & Rehabilitation Sciences, the center has been pivotal in establishing the benefits of exercise and physical therapy in managing Parkinson’s impact and enhancing quality of life. Both newly tested therapies hold promise for incorporation into patients’ everyday lives. The robotic device utilizes commercially available technology, while the music-based intervention utilizes off-the-shelf headphones. Director Terry Ellis emphasizes the indispensable role of volunteers, whose commitment makes these advancements possible.
The wearable robotic apparel, designed to address freezing of gait, demonstrated significant success in a small study involving a 73-year-old male Parkinson’s patient. The device, resembling a highly engineered sports brace, employs algorithms, motors, and cables to provide mechanical assistance to muscles and joints. Results showed that, when activated, the robotic apparel eliminated freezing of gait, marking a groundbreaking development in potential symptom management.
Another volunteer, Ann Greehy, contributed to a study exploring the use of music as a walking aid for Parkinson’s patients. Researchers found that adjusting music beats per minute helped participants increase gait speed, stride length, and overall walking pattern consistency. This novel approach, utilizing rhythmic auditory stimulation, demonstrated improvements in daily moderate intensity walking and overall quality of life.
Despite the challenges of living with Parkinson’s, volunteers like Greehy find purpose in contributing to research. Greehy, diagnosed in 2015, has actively participated in various projects at BU, including the music study. Her positive experiences with volunteering extend beyond the research realm, fostering connections with students and providing valuable insights into managing her own hobbies and lifestyle.
The Center for Neurorehabilitation emphasizes the integration of research and clinical practice, ensuring that findings directly benefit patients. Volunteers not only play a crucial role in intervention studies but also engage with students, share their experiences, and contribute to the collaborative atmosphere that drives progress. Their involvement, as highlighted by Director Terry Ellis, bridges the gap between research and practical solutions, ultimately improving the lives of those affected by Parkinson’s.
In the face of an incurable disease, volunteers like David Campbell and Ann Greehy exemplify resilience and determination, actively contributing to the advancement of scientific knowledge and potential breakthroughs in Parkinson’s research. Their commitment echoes a broader sentiment of proactive engagement, as they strive to make a meaningful impact in the ongoing quest for improved treatments and, ultimately, a cure for Parkinson’s disease.
