The Efficacy of Wearable Cueing Devices on Gait and Motor Function in Parkinson Disease: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials

Abstract

Objective

To summarize the efficacy of wearable cueing devices for improving gait and motor function of patients with Parkinson disease (PWP).

Data Sources

PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane CENTRAL databases were searched for papers published in English, from inception to October 23, 2022.

Study Selection

Randomized controlled trials focusing on the effects of wearable cueing devices on gait and motor function in PWP were included.

Data Extraction

Two reviewers independently selected articles and extracted the data. The Cochrane Bias Risk Assessment Tool was used to assess risk of bias and the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation was used to evaluate the quality of evidence.

Data Synthesis

Seven randomized controlled trials with 167 PWP were included in the meta-analysis. Significant effect of wearable cueing devices on walking speed (mean difference [MD]=0.07 m/s, 95% confidence interval [CI]: [0.05, 0.09], P<.00001) was detected; however, after sensitivity analysis, no significant overall effect on walking speed was noted (MD=0.04 m/s, 95% CI: [−0.03, 0.12], P=.25). No significant improvements were found in stride length (MD=0.06 m, 95% CI: [0.00, 0.13], P=.05), the Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale-III score (MD=−0.61, 95% CI: [−4.10, 2.88], P=.73), Freezing of Gait Questionnaire score (MD=−0.83, 95% CI: [−2.98, 1.33], P=.45), or double support time (MD=−0.91, 95% CI: [−3.09, 1.26], P=.41). Evidence was evaluated as low quality.

Conclusions

Wearable cueing devices may result in an immediate improvement on walking speed; however, there is no evidence that their use results in a significant improvement in other gait or motor functions.