The effects of speed-dependent treadmill training and rhythmic auditory-cued overground walking on balance function, fall incidence, and quality of life in individuals with idiopathic Parkinson's disease: A randomized controlled trial
Affiliations: Grand Valley State University, Grand Rapids, MI, USA
Correspondence:
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Address for correspondence: Cathy C. Harro, Grand Valley State University, 301 Michigan NE, Suite 247, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, USA. Tel.: +1 616 331 5974; Fax: +1 616 331 5654; E-mail: harroc@gvsu.edu
Abstract: Objectives:The purpose of this single-blinded, randomized controlled study was to examine and compare the immediate and retention effects of progressive speed-dependent treadmill training (SDTT) and rhythmic auditory-cued (RAC) training on balance function, fall incidence, and quality of life (QOL) in individuals with PD. Methods:Twenty participants (mean age 66.1 yrs) with idiopathic PD were randomized into either SDTT (n = 10) or RAC (n = 10) progressive, interval-based locomotor training for 6 weeks. Measures included the Berg Balance Scale (BBS), Rapid Step-Up Test (RST), Activities-specific Balance Confidence Scale, Parkinson's Disease Questionnaire-39 (PDQ), and the NeuroCom Sensory Organization Test (SOT), Motor Control Test, and Limits of Stability (LOS). Fall incidence was assessed prospectively post-training based on six monthly self-report fall calendars. Results:Significant gains in balance measures were observed post-training in BBS, RST and SOT for the RAC group and in RST, SOT and LOS for the SDTT group. Gains were retained at 3 months post-training in all measures for RAC group, but only the RST for the SDTT group. No clear trend in reduction in fall frequency was evident. Conclusion:Externally-cued locomotor training paradigms with progressive speed challenges produced significant improvements in dynamic balance function in persons with PD, with stronger retention of gains in RAC group.
