Clinical and methodological challenges for assessing freezing of gait: Future perspectives

Mov Disord. 2019 Jun;34(6):783-790. doi: 10.1002/mds.27709. Epub 2019 May 2.

Abstract

Freezing of gait, defined as sudden and usually brief episodes of inability to produce effective stepping, often results in falls and is both disabling and common in parkinsonism. In this narrative review, sprung from the 2nd International Workshop on freezing of gait in Leuven, we summarize the latest insights into clinical and methodological challenges for assessing freezing of gait. We also highlight the role of emerging wearable technology to improve the management of this debilitating symptom. © 2019 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society.

Keywords: clinical assessment; freezing of gait; technology; wearable sensors.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Gait / physiology*
  • Gait Analysis / methods*
  • Gait Disorders, Neurologic / diagnosis*
  • Gait Disorders, Neurologic / physiopathology
  • Humans
  • Wearable Electronic Devices