Low-Impact Exercises for Improving Symptoms in Parkinson's Disease: A Literature Review

Abstract

Objective: This study fills an important research gap by focusing on the effectiveness of low-impact exercise in Parkinson's disease (PD), taking into account the different challenges faced by people with varying degrees of disease severity.

Motivation: Unlike generic investigations into exercise and PD, our research prioritizes low-impact activities, considering safety concerns related to balance deficits and coordination challenges in the PD population. The study aligns with a patient-centred approach, aiming to provide a safer alternative to traditional exercise modalities.

Approach: Conducting a comprehensive literature review, we conducted an online literature search on various databases, specifically investigating about low-impact exercises on both motor and non motor symptoms in PD individuals. Review process involved capturing diverse intervention types, durations, frequencies, and intensities.

Findings: The amalgamation of diverse outcome measures, including UPDRS, Berg Balance Scale, TUG, 6MWT, and PDQ-39, showcased the multifaceted impact of low-impact exercises on both movement related and non-movement related symptoms. Notably, aerobic exercises being treadmill walking, cycling, and group sessions, emerged as pivotal interventions, demonstrating improvements in gait, balance, flexibility, and overall quality of life for PD individuals.

Conclusion: While acknowledging limitations, such as potential publication bias and a focus on aerobic exercises, this study provides meaningful decision making information for clinicians and researchers. Future research should diversify interventions and methodologies to enhance the evidence base and address nuanced aspects of low-impact exercises in PD management. The results of this review contribute to the existing body of knowledge regarding the nuanced benefits of personalized low-impact exercise for Parkinson's disease.