Authors

  1. Singh, Gurpreet PhD, PT
  2. Jain, Tarang K. PhD, PT
  3. Liu, Wen PhD
  4. Colgrove, Yvonne PhD, PT
  5. Pahwa, Rajesh MD
  6. Lyon, Kelly PhD
  7. Sharma, Neena PhD, PT

Abstract

Objective: Evaluate the effects of balance training on nonmotor symptoms associated with Parkinson disease (PD) using Biodex stability system (BSS).

 

Methods: Twenty individuals with PD were assigned to either a BSS group (n = 10) or a non-BSS group (n = 10) who performed exercises for 4 weeks. Assessments of depression, fatigue, pain, fear of falling, and quality of life (QOL) were done using standardized measures.

 

Results: Fatigue was found to be significantly different within (mean difference: 8 +/- 11.5 points; 95% CI, -0.27, 16) as well as between groups (mean difference: 12.6 +/- 12.3 points; 95% CI, 23.4, 1.7) for only the BSS group.

 

Conclusion: Balance exercise training can decrease fatigue, which may have valuable implications on fear of falling and QOL in individuals with PD.