New Hope for Movement: Wearable Tech Supports Mobility in Parkinson’s Disease

A man living with Parkinson’s disease has regained the ability to play sports he once believed he had lost forever, thanks to a promising new wearable technology being tested in the UK. Helping Muscles Move with Electrical Stimulation David Muskett, 72, from Bournemouth, is taking part in a University of Southampton clinical trial using Functional Electrical Stimulation (FES) — a method that applies mild electrical pulses to the legs to stimulate muscle movement. The device, fitted at Salisbury Hospital, includes pads that send a small current to leg muscles, triggered by a switch in his shoe. "It feels like I'm walking before I had Parkinson's," Mr. Muskett shared. 🏸 Back to the Sports He Loves Diagnosed 10 years ago, Mr. Muskett is now playing badminton and golf again and has joined the Dorset Parky Striders, a walking football team for people with Parkinson’s. He says the device has made a huge difference: “Balance, everything—I just feel more confident moving around the pitch.” He also noted improved stride, balance, and a feeling of walking naturally. 🔬 What the Trial Is Investigating This FES device is already used by people with Multiple Sclerosis and stroke survivors. Now, over 200 people with Parkinson’s across eight UK sites — including Bristol, Birmingham, Leeds, Swansea, and more — are testing whether it can: Improve walking speed Enhance balance Reduce the risk of falls 📈 Encouraging Early Results Previous research led by Prof. Maggie Donovan-Hall found that participants using the device: Walked faster Took longer strides Experienced fewer falls Even more encouraging, some people retained these improvements even after they stopped using the device, suggesting a lasting “training effect.” Participants also reported better independence, well-being, and family engagement. 📢 A Call to Action Researchers are encouraging more people with Parkinson’s to participate. The goal is to gather enough evidence to make these devices available as a low-cost treatment through the NHS. 🌟 Why This Matters This trial offers renewed hope for improving everyday mobility and independence for people with Parkinson’s, and for helping them stay connected to the activities—and people—they love.