The effect of bilateral subthalamic nucleus deep brain stimulation on gait and balance in patients with Parkinson's disease

Deep stimulation of the subthalamic nucleus (DBS STN) is a highly effective and relatively safety method of surgical treatment of Parkinson's disease (PD), which can significantly reduce the motor symptoms of the disease (rigidity, tremor, hypokinesia), as well as levodopa-associated dyskinesia and fluctuations. However, the effect of DBS STN on axial symptoms, such as gait and postural stability, remains contentious. The searching for risk factors for worsening gait and balance disturbances in patients receiving DBS STN continues. Studies are being perfomed on the parameters of the DBS STN to reduce its negative impact on gait and balance.