Resistance Training in Parkinson’s Disease: A Longitudinal Study

Abstract

Objective: The objective of this study was to verify the effect of micro-loads and elastic bands exercise program in a group of patients with Parkinson's disease (PD). Methods: Twenty-one people with PD, participated in this study. All participants were able to walk unassisted, and their disability score using the Hoehn & Yahr scale was 2 ± 0.5. Subjects were randomly assigned to micro-loads group (11 subjects, age 69 ± 10 years; weight 72 ± 12 kg, height 171 ± 7 cm) or to elastic band group (9 subjects, age 70 ± 11 years; weight 69 ± 15 kg and high 169 ± 9 cm). Both groups performed two sessions of physical activity per week during a period of 5 months. Subjects were evaluated on flexibility with sit and reach test; the body balance with stabilometric platform, useful to evaluate the center of pressure (COP); the Spinal Mouse ® to assess the column shape and the sit to stand test to measure the strength performance of lower limbs. Tests were three times during the training period: after the first and the third month of physical activity and at the end of the training period. Results: Data showed a statistically significant variation in the sit to stand test in the EG group (T 0 vs T 2 ; Anova, p < 0.001, post hoc, p < 0.01, +19%). Conclusion: Both micro-loads and elastic band exercises were well-tolerated. Elastic bands exercises produced a significant improvement in the lower limbs muscles performance.

Body Balance and Core Training in Parkinson’s Disease: A Longitudinal Crossover Study

“…The trunk flexes forward while keeping the lower limbs extended. When the maximum distance was reached, the measure was assessed through a digital distance meter installed on the parallelepiped [15]. A stabilometric platform (Tecnoboby Prokin PK 214 P, Bergamo, Italy) [15] …”

“…Yang et al [12] showed a correlation between step length, dynamic balance and the displacement of the center of gravity. Many authors recommend physical activity to subjects suffering from PD, including aquatic exercises [13], physical activities accompanied by music [14] and resistance training [15]. The physical decline caused by PD in its early stage can be well fought by focusing on movements able to increase muscle longevity and to maximize muscles functional capabilities [16] [17].…”