Effectiveness of different exercises in improving postural balance among Parkinson's disease patients: a systematic review and network meta-analysis

Abstract

BackgroundExercise has been reported as an effective intervention for Parkinson's disease. However, there is still debate on the what kinds of exercises prior to choosing. This study aimed to compare and rank the different exercises that effectively enhance postural balance in Parkinson's disease patients by quantifying the information gleaned from randomized controlled trials (RCTs).MethodsWe conducted a comprehensive database search, including PubMed, Cochrane Library, Embase, Web of Science, and PsycINFO. The included studies were evaluated for methodological quality by the Cochrane Risk of Bias tool.ResultsThe RCTs were collected between the earliest available date and March 2023. Sixty RCTs were included and the total sample size used in the study was 3,537. Thirty-five studies were defined as low risk of bias, twenty-one studies as medium risk of bias, and four studies as high risk of bias. The network meta-analysis results showed that exergaming exercise can significantly improve patients' Timed-Up-and-Go time (SUCRA = 91.5%). Dance can significantly enhance patients' Berg Balance Scale (surface under the cumulative ranking curve, SUCRA = 81.3%), and rhythmical auditory exercise can significantly improve patients' Mini-Balance Evaluation Systems Test score (SUCRA = 95.6%).ConclusionCompared with other exercises, exergaming exercise, Dance, and rhythmical auditory exercise showed superior efficacy in improving postural balance among Parkinson's disease patients.Systematic review registrationhttps://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/, identifier: CRD42023411918.

PEMOCS: Evaluating the effects of a concept-guided, PErsonalised, MOtor-Cognitive exergame training on cognitive functions and gait in chronic Stroke—study protocol for a randomised controlled trial

“…In healthy older adults, exergames have been shown to improve motor and dual-task functions [ 46 – 51 ], while potential has been reported for improving cognitive functions [ 52 – 56 ]. In other neurological populations, exergames showed beneficial effects on balance, mobility, and walking capacity [ 57 – 62 ], while the evidence for improving cognitive functions with exergames is yet scarce and inconsistent [ 63 – 66 ]. In (chronic) stroke, exergames have been found a suitable adjunct to conventional rehabilitation for improving motor functions [ 67 – 69 ].…”