Objective: To develop and evaluate the efficacy of a specialized 3D-printed device designed to correct gait disorders in Parkinson’s disease by enhancing step initiation via mechanical stimulation of the swing phase.

Background: Gait disorders and falls represent the main disabling factors for patients with PD, demonstrating resistance to conventional pharmacotherapy. The current deficit in corrective interventions underscores the need for novel approaches. Impaired push-off strength, disrupting step initiation, constitutes the critical component in the development of the pathological gait pattern, thereby determining the aim of the present work.

Method: A novel rehabilitation device providing mechanical push-off stimulation during swing phase was developed. PD patients (n=60, H&Y 2-3, age 65 [54;72], 75% female, disease duration 5 [3;7] years) were randomized into intervention (n=40, device training) and control (n=20, regular footwear) groups. Both groups walked 40 min/day for 2 weeks; medication remained unchanged. Kinematic parameters (step length/duration, speed, variability) were measured using laser analyzer. Functional outcomes included BBS, DGI, and UPDRS-III.

Results: Intervention group showed significant improvements in all parameters: step length (0.48→0.55 m), speed (0.78→0.89 m/s), step time (0.63→0.60 s), variability-length (0.38→0.32), variability-time (0.30→0.22) (p<0.05). Functional scores improved: BBS (43.5→50.0), DGI (19.0→22.0), UPDRS-III (37.5→25.5) (p<0.05). Clinically, patients achieved more natural gait with improved rhythm, arm swing, and stability. Control group showed no kinematic changes; modest functional improvements (UPDRS-III 37.5→33.5; BBS 42.0→43.5; DGI 18.5→19.0; p<0.05) were likely due to regular activity.

Conclusion: The proposed method effectively restores push-off mechanics, enhances step initiation, and reduces gait variability, addressing key parkinsonian gait components resistant to medication. This approach significantly improves gait parameters and functional status, reducing fall risk, and represents a promising non-pharmacological rehabilitation tool for PD.

« Back to 2026 International Congress

MDS Abstracts - https://www.mdsabstracts.org/abstract/a-specialized-3d-printed-device-for-gait-rehabilitation-in-parkinsons-development-and-application/