| Abstract | The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of prolonged physical therapy on disability in patients with Parkinson's disease. The study was designed as an open long-term trial over 20 weeks. Twenty slightly to moderately affected parkinsonian patients were included (Hoehn & Yahr stages: 1.5-3). A comprehensive rehabilitation program was applied three times a week in all patients. Pharmacological treatment was kept stable. Evaluations were performed at baseline, at the end of treatment and after 3 months. Following physical rehabilitation, there was a significant improvement in UPDRS (ADL and motor sections) scores, Self-assessment Parkinson's disease Disability Scale, Ten-Meter Walk test and Zung scale for depression. At 3-month follow-up clinical improvements were largely maintained. A sustained improvement of motor skills in PD patients can be achieved with a long-term comprehensive rehabilitation program. |
| Authors | M T Pellecchia, A Grasso, L G Biancardi, M Squillante, V Bonavita, P Barone
(Affiliation: Department of Neurological Sciences, University "Federico II", Ed. 17, Via Pansini 5, 80131, Naples, Italy. foods at katamail.com)
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| Journal | Journal of neurology
(J Neurol)
Vol. 251
Issue 5
Pg. 595-8
(May 2004)
ISSN: 0340-5354 Germany |
| PMID | 15164194
(Publication Type: Clinical Trial, Comparative Study, Journal Article)
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| Topics |
- Aged
- Disability Evaluation
- Female
- Follow-Up Studies
- Humans
- Male
- Middle Aged
- Motor Skills
(physiology)
- Neurologic Examination
- Parkinson Disease
(rehabilitation)
- Physical Therapy Modalities
- Severity of Illness Index
- Single-Blind Method
- Time Factors
- Treatment Outcome
- Walking
|
