March 14, 2016
Three hundred people who suffer from Parkinson's disease may avoid the disabling phenomenon known as freezing of gait at road crossings, thanks to the purchase of 300 high- tech walking sticks.
The laser-guided mobility aids were bought with a donation of HK$360,000 from the Hong Kong Sanatorium & Hospital.
Neurology center co-director Patrick Li Chung-ki said an infrared ray beam shines on the ground acting as a visionary aid to patients.
The symptom of sudden immobilization, freezing of gait, is a common body coordination fatigue among Parkinson's patients.
Chan Kam-fai, who has suffered from Parkinson's for 10 years, said he once froze for half an hour at a zebra crossing. Chan received a laser walking stick two months ago and symptoms have not returned. "The stick makes me feel more secure and I am now more willing to go out alone," he said.
Winnie Chan Yin, chairwoman of the Hong Kong Parkinson's Disease Patients Association, said she too had an embarrassing moment when getting off an MTR train.
"I wanted to get off the train, but I suddenly could not move and the door was closing. No one knew I was actually in trouble," she said.
Parkinson's disease is incurable, but a combination of physiotherapy and medicine, as well as aids such as the laser walking stick, may help patients resolve unpleasantness.
Hong Kong Brain Foundation honorary secretary Cheung Yuk-fai said the stick not only assists in smooth walking, but also acts as a mental support for patients.
"Our patients are less likely to fall down and suffer bone fractures. It is a strong encouragement for them to stay positive," Cheung
saidhttp://www.thestandard.com.hk/section-news.php?id=167203
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