FURI | Spring 2024

Effects of Parkinson’s Disease and a Secondary Cognitive Task on Postural Sway and Reactive Balance

A prominent symptom of Parkinson’s disease is postural instability which makes it difficult for patients to keep steady when standing or regain their balance when disturbed. This effect on balance can be seen through the change in the center of pressure and gait pattern. This project focuses on the analysis of balance treatments for Parkinson’s patients and consists of two parts, the sway and reactive balance research. In both cases, the patient is put under the stress of performing a cognitive task, and analysis is done to establish a relationship between the activation of a certain part of the brain and their balance.