Innovative Parkinson’s Treatment in New Mexico: Students Develop Life-Changing Technology

According to KRQE, While Parkinson’s disease remains incurable, advancements in treatment continue to offer patients some relief from its symptoms. In northern New Mexico, students are drawing inspiration from Stanford University research to tackle treatment solutions as part of the New Mexico Frontiers program.

For Española resident Eduardo Zambrano, today is a significant day. He’s at Northern New Mexico College, anticipating the potential impact of a groundbreaking technology developed by a group of unexpected engineers: high school and college students.

Eduardo was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease about a decade ago. The first signs appeared as a stooped posture and rigid muscles—just two of the 22 known symptoms of the disease, which also includes changes in speech and writing, difficulty with blinking, smiling, or walking, and slowed movement. Tremors are among the most common and challenging symptoms.

Dr. Steve Cox, an associate professor of engineering at Northern New Mexico College, has been collaborating closely with the faculty at Española Valley High School and students in their MESA (Mathematics, Engineering, Science Achievement) program.

The project began about a year and a half ago when a colleague whose husband had been diagnosed with Parkinson’s approached Dr. Cox. She had seen a story on The Today Show about an experimental glove developed at Stanford University and wondered if something similar could be created locally.

Since then, students from Española Valley High School have been working alongside undergraduate engineering students to develop their version of the Parkinson’s glove. This wearable device delivers random, low-level vibrations to the fingertips, which, according to Stanford research, can alleviate some of the symptoms of Parkinson’s disease.

The project, known as Steady Hands, is more than just a technological innovation—it’s a bridge between generations, connecting younger students with older community members and fostering a sense of investment in the well-being of their elders.

After creating a dozen prototypes, Eduardo now has a new pair of gloves, which provide him with temporary relief from the debilitating effects of Parkinson’s. The Steady Hands program has garnered significant recognition for its efforts, including winning the prestigious New Mexico Governor’s STEM Challenge award.