Research

Struthers Parkinson’s Center is dedicated to research efforts directed at understanding and improving the lives and care of patients with Parkinson’s disease. The center has cared for patients for more 20 years, and has created a unique environment suited to Parkinson’s research.

Unique center research attributes

More than 1,500 patients with Parkinson's disease currently served

Geographically diverse patient base serving the five-state area

Broad range of symptoms and stages

Experienced staff

Major metropolitan location

Holistic therapies, such as tai chi, massage, relaxation, music therapy and spirituality

Association with many academic institutions

Designated a Center of Excellence by National Parkinson Foundation

Recognized leader in education and early adopter of new methods and techniques in treating Parkinson’s disease

Research efforts include advancing our understanding of Parkinson’s disease and related conditions, developing new and improved treatments and identifying new areas of research.

To meet these goals, the center is involved in clinical research studies with pharmaceutical companies, federally sponsored research, collaborations with other Parkinson’s disease experts and locally designed studies. The center’s research director focuses on expanding the center’s involvement in clinical research, and functional and quality-of-life outcome studies.

For patients, participation in research ensures access to potentially effective therapies that otherwise are not available.

Past research

Clinical drug trials of new symptom management treatments

Genetic factors that may contribute to a Parkinson's disease diagnosis

Database for studying various research questions

Care-giving approaches

Cognitive issues in Parkinson's disease

Future areas of study

Continue work with pharmaceutical companies on new and improved treatments

Evaluate alternative and complementary therapies

Conduct clinical studies of various drug regimens, including combination therapies

Continue work on genetic aspects of Parkinson's disease

Implement database developed for research studies

Expand past work on cognition (thinking) and strategies for improving thinking and memory

Create therapies for non-Parkinson movement disorders

Improve quality of life for caregivers and people with Parkinson’s

Measure the CREATE program's effectiveness

See a list of research publications written by Struthers Parkinson’s Center staff.

To find out what studies currently are enrolling participants, or how you can help with the center’s research efforts, call 952-993-5495 or toll-free at 888-993-5495. For information on conducting studies at Struthers Parkinson’s Center, call 952-993-5607.