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New Deep Brain Stimulation Settings May Improve Speech and Voice Problems in Parkinson’s Disease

Karl, Jennifer A., et al. “Effect of High, Low, and Asymmetric Frequency Subthalamic Stimulation on Speech and Voice in Parkinson’s Disease: A Randomized Trial.” npj Parkinson’s Disease, July 2025. https://www.nature.com/articles/s41531-025-01090-0

Many people with Parkinson’s disease experience changes in speech and voice, including reduced volume, slurred words and difficulty communicating. Unfortunately, traditional deep brain stimulation (DBS), while highly effective for motor symptoms, can sometimes worsen speech problems. A 2025 study published in npj Parkinson’s Disease explored whether adjusting DBS frequencies could improve communication without sacrificing symptom control.

Researchers evaluated how different stimulation frequencies affected speech and voice quality in people with Parkinson’s disease who had subthalamic nucleus DBS implants. Participants received high-frequency, low-frequency and asymmetric-frequency stimulation settings during a randomized clinical trial.

The researchers found that some alternative stimulation settings improved aspects of speech and voice while maintaining control of Parkinson’s symptoms. In particular, individualized approaches appeared to offer benefits for communication that standard DBS settings may not provide. The findings suggest that speech difficulties should not automatically be accepted as an unavoidable side effect of DBS therapy.

This research highlights the growing movement toward personalized medicine in Parkinson’s care. Rather than applying identical DBS settings to every patient, clinicians may eventually tailor stimulation patterns based on each individual's symptoms and treatment goals.

For people who rely on speech to maintain social relationships, independence and quality of life, these findings provide hope that future DBS programming may better address communication challenges alongside traditional motor symptoms.
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PUBLISHED RESEARCH

 To ensure we are providing accurate and timely information, we only list articles on studies that are published in peer-reviewed periodicals and provide information to help you live well with PD.  To find additional papers and research CLICK HERE