Cala Health has expanded its neurostimulation system, previously used for essential tremor, to now include Parkinson's disease. Unlike many wearable devices for Parkinson's that primarily track the condition, Cala Health's latest version aims to treat the tremors associated with the disease.

The newly launched kIQ system, approved by the FDA, is worn around the wrist and provides on-demand access to Cala's Transcutaneous Afferent Patterned Stimulation (TAPS) therapy. While the previous Cala Trio system was only cleared for use by individuals with essential tremor, the kIQ system is now FDA-cleared to treat action hand tremors in both Parkinson's and essential tremor patients. This makes kIQ the first and only wearable device authorized by the FDA for this purpose in a wider range of patients.

The kIQ system begins by monitoring the patient's individual tremors and developing a personalized stimulation therapy pattern. This pattern is then integrated into regular TAPS sessions, stimulating the nerves in the wrist to target the brain areas associated with the tremor. The entire system is noninvasive and is recommended for 40-minute sessions, up to five times a day.

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After each therapy session, the device automatically sends data to Cala's online patient portal, where users can choose to share reports summarizing their results with their doctors.

Studies conducted on TAPS neurostimulation therapy have shown positive outcomes. In a 2020 study involving essential tremor patients, more than 90% experienced a reduction of at least 50% in the strength of their tremors after using Cala's device. Relief from tremors can start during the therapy session and last for approximately 60 minutes after completion, with some users experiencing even longer relief.

Cala Health recommends scheduling TAPS sessions shortly before events or tasks where tremor reduction is desired. The impact of tremors on patients' mental health and daily activities underscores the need for effective and safe treatment options. TAPS therapy can play a significant role in managing symptoms and improving patients' quality of life, according to Dr. Pravin Khemani, a neurologist based in Seattle, as stated in Cala's announcement.