Effects of low frequency stimulation of the globus pallidus internus on freezing of gait in Parkinson disease

Objective To discuss the effectiveness of low frequency stimulation of the globus pallidus internus (GPi) in the treatment of freezing of gait in Parkinson disease. Methods We observed deep brain stimulation on freezing of gait of Parkinson disease at Parkinson Disease Center, the Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University. Two patients who underwent GPi-targeted surgery were selected. They received high and low frequency stimulation and the effects on freezing of gait in Parkinson disease were observed. Results Compared with high frequency stimulation, patients receiving low frequency stimulation presented improved scores of the Freezing of Gait Questionnaire. Conclusions Low frequency stimulation of the GPi can improve the freezing of gait of Parkinson disease without exacerbating effects on tremor.