Physical neurorehabilitation therapy in Parkinson's disease “OFF” period

Objective The aim of this study was to evaluate the short-term effects of the physical neurorehabilitation therapy among PD patients “OFF” period especially on balance, walking and quality of life. Material/patients and methods Eight patients (59 ± 10 years) at a moderate stage (the pre- and post-tests in “OFF” period) (12 hours after the last dopaminergic intake) consisted of the clinical assessment of balance control ability by the tests of Tinetti, Timed “Up and Go” test (TUG) and the instrumental evaluation with posturography that was done in both eyes-opened (EO) and eyes-closed (EC) conditions. The walking test was performed by the 6-minute walk test (6MWT) as well as a recording by the locometer. Quality of life assessment was done through UPDRS III. The protocol is based on an asymmetric motor strengthening targeted at the opener muscles by using resistance that is increased progressively. Those exercises were combined with stretching postures for the closer muscles. Finally, work was completed in occupational therapy to regain autonomy and increase functional performance. Results We observed a significant improvement in balance by the Tinetti test ( P P P P P P Discussion – conclusion The physical neurorehabilitation therapy provides good results on balance, walking and quality of life in PD patients. Further prospective clinical studies with larger number of patients and more longer duration of follow-up are needed to confirm our results.