CRUCIAL clinical research is being carried out at Poole Hospital into the causes and treatments of a range of neurological conditions.

Multiple sclerosis (MS), epilepsy, Parkinson’s and Huntington’s disease are among conditions under the spotlight.

Research trials being undertaken at the hospital will contribute to information about neurological diseases, how they work and evolve.

According to the Neurological Alliance charity it is estimated that 12.5million people in the UK alone suffer from neurological conditions.

One of the most recent studies to be undertaken is PD Safe, a study that investigates the effectiveness of a physiotherapy exercise programme in reducing falls in Parkinson’s disease.

Others include genetic analysis of multiple sclerosis using DNA samples to understand more about the conditions and an investigation into the effectiveness of a new speech therapy technique in Parkinson’s disease.

Neurological research nurse Annemieke Fox said: “Studies like these are an important way of helping prevent and treat illness and health problems.

“There is still so much to learn about neurological conditions, they can significantly affect a person’s quality of life, so it is vital to learn as much as we can about them and raise awareness.”

The research team has recently been assigned a dedicated area for neurological conditions including epilepsy, Parkinson’s, MS and Huntington’s disease as well as acquired brain injuries.

This will allow them to concentrate on gathering the data and recruiting people with a neurological condition to the trials.

Information from participants is crucial to understanding these conditions. Each study has specific criteria participants must meet. However, anyone interested in taking part should contact Annemieke Fox on 01202 263210 or email annemieke.fox@poole.nhs.uk