Combining rTMS and Video Game-based Dexterity Training to Improve Dexterity in Parkinson's Disease

We investigate the effectiveness of a combined repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) - video game-based training (VBT) dexterity intervention in Parkinson's diseases. The short and long-term benefits of this training program will be evaluated. For these purposes, a blinded sham controlled randomized controlled trial will be performed.

Patients with Parkinson's disease (PD) often exhibit dexterous difficulties during the performance of activities of daily living (ADL) such as tying shoe laces, hand-writing, using remote controls, smartphone or tablet. These difficulties further add to the burden of the disease, leading to reduced quality of life (QoL). A relatively new, but rapidly growing aspect of training in PD neurorehabilitation is exergaming. To enhance training effects a combination of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) with exergaming will be tested.