Subscribe now

Health

Beeping shoes help people with Parkinson's disease walk further

A sensor that clips onto shoes and alerts wearers when they walk with a strong stride improved stability among people with Parkinson's in a small trial

By Sara Novak

19 January 2024

People with Parkinson’s often have tremors and balance problems, which can lead to falls

Roberto G. Librán/Moment RF/Getty Images

Shoes that beep when someone walks with a strong stride improve stability in people with Parkinson’s disease, a small study has shown.

The condition occurs due to a loss of nerve cells in part of the brain called the substantia nigra. This leads to a reduction in a chemical called dopamine, which helps regulate movement. As a result, Parkinson’s symptoms commonly include tremors, slow walking and balance problems, which can lead to falls.

In an effort to overcome…

Sign up to our weekly newsletter

Receive a weekly dose of discovery in your inbox! We'll also keep you up to date with New Scientist events and special offers.

Sign up

To continue reading, subscribe today with our introductory offers

View introductory offers

No commitment, cancel anytime*

Offer ends 2nd of July 2024.

*Cancel anytime within 14 days of payment to receive a refund on unserved issues.

Inclusive of applicable taxes (VAT)

or

Existing subscribers

Sign in to your account