Feasibility and safety assessment of a physiotherapy program for Parkinson’s disease applied in groups and its general effects on motor symptoms and quality of life

Abstract

Introduction: Parkinson's disease (PD) is a progressive neurological disorder that leads to slowness in movement and gradual loss of mobility, reflecting on the functionality, independence and quality of life of individuals. The physical therapy interventions have been used to improve the functionality of patients with PD. However, there is a lack of well established protocols focused on mobility and agility for these individuals. Considering the numerous cases of PD and its increase by the progressive aging of the population, it is relevant to test whether protocols of exercises focused on mobility and agility are feasible, safe and effective when performed in group. Objectives: The objectives of this study were (i) to verify the feasibility and safety of the application in group of a exercise program, based on Agility Boot Camp program (ABC); (ii) assess the general effects of these exercises practiced together on the global function, stage of disease, balance, gait, mobility and quality of life in individuals with PD. Methods: Fourteen individuals with PD (Hoehn and Yahr stages 1-3) were submitted to the proposed program, divided into two groups of seven individuals each. The program was applied for four weeks, three times a week, for 60 minutes per session. The program consisted of 6 categories of exercises (Tai chi, kayaking, agility training, boxing, lunges and Pilates) performed for 10 minutes each. Participant’s attendance was registered and safety was evaluated registering adverse events during/after each session. The measures of motor function and quality of life were performed before and after the intervention period. Results: The results indicated a high attendance (95%) to the program. There were no episodes of falls or adverse events among the participants during the program. All participants completed the program. Significant differences were found between the scores before and after the intervention for all measures employed, except for the activities of daily living (ADL). Conclusion: It follows, therefore, that the applied program proved to be feasible and safe to be applied in small groups of individuals with PD. Moreover, despite the progressive nature of the disease, the overall function, balance, mobility and quality of life of the patients in this study improved after the program. However, to confirm such beneficial results, further randomized controlled studies with a larger sample are necessary.