The evolution of Parkinson’s disease assessment methods

Until now, Parkinson’s disease (PD) has presented clinicians with unique challenges with its progressive nature and varied symptomatology. Our latest white paper Benefits of objectively measuring Parkinson’s disease motor symptoms explores the evolution of PD assessment methods. It presents the transformative potential of objective measurements for making better-informed decisions to improve patient outcomes.

Understanding the need for objective measurement

Traditionally, clinicians have relied on subjective assessments during in-clinic visits, using rating scales like the Unified Parkinson’s Disease Rating Scale (UPDRS) to evaluate symptoms. The symptoms are assessed based on observation and patient-recorded experiences.

Although this first-generation approach is considered the current gold standard, it does not capture the full spectrum of symptoms or their fluctuations over time. It also does not take into consideration the subjectivity across physicians and other professionals and relies greatly on the professional experience of the individual. It is also dependent on the patient’s memory. The approach often leads to incomplete evaluations of disease progression.

Our white paper discusses the limitations of this approach and emphasizes the critical need for objective measurement techniques.

Evolution of PD assessment – from first- to second-generation approach

To overcome the limitations of subjective evaluations, motion measurement methods have emerged, using wearable devices to monitor a patient’s movement. This is known as the second-generation approach.

The motion measurement devices offer objective data on a patient’s movement over extended periods, providing insights into PD-related motor symptoms, disease progression and treatment effectiveness. However, they have limitations in capturing symptoms that are not yet physically visible and determining the root cause of observed movements.

Our white paper discusses the strengths and limitations of the second-generation approach to lay the foundation for understanding the revolutionary potential of the third-generation approach.

Third-generation approach – adding EMG to motion measurement

The third-generation approach integrates surface electromyography (EMG) with motion measurement to provide unparalleled accuracy in symptom assessment. By measuring neuromuscular signals and motion simultaneously, deeper insight into muscle activity can be achieved. Clinicians receive clinically meaningful and actionable data for treatment planning – enabling evidence-based decisions that lead to more effective symptom management.

Innovative solutions, such as the third-generation approach offered by Adamant Health, give clinicians a deeper understanding of a patient’s motor symptoms. It differentiates between visually similar symptoms and detects not yet physically visible symptoms and rigidity, enabling personalized treatment and improved patient outcomes.

Adamant Health’s combined wearable surface EMG and 3D accelerometry complements the gold standard by providing clinicians with accurate and objective data to validate patient evaluations and treatment plans.

Join the movement towards data-driven PD management

We invite healthcare professionals and researchers to join us in embracing the future of data-driven PD management. By leveraging advanced technology and objective measurement methods, we can enhance patient outcomes, improve the quality of a patient’s life and drive progress in the field of PD research and treatment.

Access the full white paper and explore the transformative potential of the third-generation approach for measuring PD motor symptoms:

Together, let’s unlock new possibilities by harnessing advanced data-driven technology to make a positive impact on the lives of PD patients worldwide.