VReeze : an open-source virtual reality for the examination of freezing of gait in Parkinson's disease - a study design of a crossover repeated measures study for validation
Recent Publication
The VReeze project is investigating whether virtual reality (VR) can help to specifically trigger and analyse the so-called "freezing of gait" in Parkinson's disease. This is when the gait suddenly stops even though the person wants to continue walking - this is known as FOG. These brief blockages often occur in confined spaces or under stress and increase the risk of falling. The current study describes how the VR application is to be tested. Dr Stephanie Hirschbichler MSc PhD from the Clinical Department of Neurology (University Hospital St. Pölten) is significantly involved in this project.
Siragy, T., Russo, Y., Hirschbichler, S., Nantel, J., Wegscheider, P., Schweiger, H., Simonlehner, M., Kisiel, M., & Horsak, B. (2025). VReeze: an open-source virtual reality for the examination of freezing of gait in Parkinson's disease - a study design of a crossover repeated measures study for validation. BMJ Open, 15(11), e106489. https://doi.org/10.1136/bmjopen-2025-106489
OÄ Dr. Stephanie Hirschbichler MSc PhD
Division of Neurology (University Hospital St. Pölten)