Physical therapy in Parkinson's disease: an open long-term rehabilitation trial

J Neurol. 2004 May;251(5):595-8. doi: 10.1007/s00415-004-0379-2.

Abstract

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of prolonged physical therapy on disability in patients with Parkinson's disease. The study was designed as an open long-term trial over 20 weeks. Twenty slightly to moderately affected parkinsonian patients were included (Hoehn & Yahr stages: 1.5-3). A comprehensive rehabilitation program was applied three times a week in all patients. Pharmacological treatment was kept stable. Evaluations were performed at baseline, at the end of treatment and after 3 months. Following physical rehabilitation, there was a significant improvement in UPDRS (ADL and motor sections) scores, Self-assessment Parkinson's disease Disability Scale, Ten-Meter Walk test and Zung scale for depression. At 3-month follow-up clinical improvements were largely maintained. A sustained improvement of motor skills in PD patients can be achieved with a long-term comprehensive rehabilitation program.

Publication types

  • Clinical Trial
  • Comparative Study

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Disability Evaluation
  • Female
  • Follow-Up Studies
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Motor Skills / physiology
  • Neurologic Examination
  • Parkinson Disease / rehabilitation*
  • Physical Therapy Modalities*
  • Severity of Illness Index
  • Single-Blind Method
  • Time Factors
  • Treatment Outcome
  • Walking