N/A
Completed N=19
Observational Study Evaluating Robotic Spinal Mobilization in 16 Parkinson's Disease Participants. The Study Recorded Changes in Mobility, Sit-to-stand Performance, and Pain Scores After a 2-week Intervention With the BackHug Device.
Parkinson's Disease (PD)
Source: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT07384364 ↗
Enrolled (actual)
19
Serious AEs
0.0%
Results posted
Mar 2026
Primary outcomePrimary: Percent Change in Functional Mobility (3-Meter Timed Up and Go Test) — -23.02 percentage of change
Summary
The goal of this completed observational pilot study was to evaluate the immediate and short-term clinical effects of robotic spinal mobilization on motor and non-motor symptoms in community-dwelling adults with Parkinson's Disease (PD). Specifically, the study aimed to determine if the mechanical release of axial rigidity correlates with measurable improvements in functional mobility, postural stability, and symptom burden.
A cohort of 16 participants (Hoehn and Yahr Stages 1-3) attended four 40-minute therapy sessions using the BackHug device over a two-week period. The device utilizes 26 robotic fingers to deliver targeted deep-tissue mobilization to the paraspinal muscles and intervertebral joints.
Researchers assessed outcomes using a repeated-measures design. Functional mobility and strength were measured immediately before and after sessions to capture acute therapeutic effects. Subjective metrics for chronic back pain and sleep quality were monitored longitudinally to assess cumulative benefits. The study provides preliminary data on the feasibility and efficacy of non-invasive mechanical mobilization as an adjunct therapy for PD.
Outcome Measures
| Outcome | Result | p-value |
|---|---|---|
| PRIMARY Percent Change in Functional Mobility (3-Meter Timed Up and Go Test) |
-23.02 | — |
| SECONDARY Percent Change in Subjective Back Pain Intensity (Visual Analog Scale) From Baseline |
-66.8 | — |
| SECONDARY Percent Change in Self-Reported Sleep Quality From Baseline |
-34.1 | — |
| SECONDARY Percent Change in Functional Lower Limb Strength (30-Second Sit-to-Stand Test) |
60.85 | — |
Eligibility Criteria
Inclusion Criteria
- Diagnosis: Confirmed clinical diagnosis of Parkinson's Disease.
- Disease Severity: Hoehn and Yahr Scale Stage 3 or below (indicating mild to moderate disability with preserved postural reflexes).
- Functional Mobility: Ability to walk independently for approximately 5 minutes. Use of walking poles is permitted; reliance on a walking frame (Zimmer frame) or wheelchair excludes participation.
- Consent: Willing and able to provide informed consent and attend all four scheduled therapy sessions.
Exclusion Criteria
- Spinal & Bone Pathology: Diagnosis of spinal malignancy (benign or malignant tumors), active spinal infection (e.g., tuberculosis), severe congenital defects (dysplasia), metabolic bone disease (e.g., severe osteomalacia), or currently healing spinal fractures/dislocations.
- Inflammatory Conditions: Severe Rheumatoid Arthritis or other inflammatory arthritides causing potential spinal instability.
- Neurological Contraindications (Non-PD): Evidence of spinal cord compression, spinal cord damage, or Cauda Equina syndrome.
- Vascular & Hematological Risks: History of aortic dysfunction (e.g., abdominal aortic aneurysm, blood clot), severe haemophilia, or unmanaged bleeding disorders.
- Other: Current pregnancy; History of active cancer (excluding localized squamous cell carcinoma); Recent spinal surgery.
Data sourced from ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT07384364). Outcome figures and adverse-event rates are extracted automatically from the registry's posted results and are provided for clinician reference, not as a substitute for the primary publication. Informational only — not medical advice.