Method and device for managing freezing gait disorders

Abstract

A method and device for managing akinetic episodes of "freezing" and "start hesitation" experienced by individuals who suffer from Parkinson's disease and related disorders of the extrapyramidal nervous system projects a beam of light to facilitate mobility. The projection device, used alone or adapted to an assistive support such as a cane or walker, or to an item of clothing, projects a thin beam or discrete pattern of light using a laser, flash or other high-intensity light source to provide a luminous mark in the path of a standing individual. The mark is flashed at will by push-button control, and provides a visual cue to the operator encouraging him or her to step up and over the projected image. This cue breaks the freeze and permits the user to resume motion. Preferably a timer extinguishes the light after a brief interval. Circuitry may blink the light during the projection interval to enhance its efficacy. Operation of this device requires no significant physical or mental effort, and is to be implemented as a mechanical treatment under existing health and disability programs.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.