The effects of balance training and high-intensity resistance training on persons with idiopathic Parkinson's disease.
OBJECTIVE
To assess immediate and near-term effects of 2 exercise training programs for persons with idiopathic Parkinson's disease (IPD).


METHODS
Randomized control trial.


METHODS
Public health facility and medical center.


METHODS
Fifteen persons with IPD.


METHODS
Combined group (balance and resistance training) and balance group (balance training only) underwent 10 weeks of high-intensity resistance training (knee extensors and flexors, ankle plantarflexion) and/or balance training under altered visual and somatosensory sensory conditions, 3 times a week on nonconsecutive days. Groups were assessed before, immediately after training, and 4 weeks later.


METHODS
Balance was assessed by computerized dynamic posturography, which determined the subject's response to reduced or altered visual and somatosensory orientation cues (Sensory Orientation Test [SOT]). Muscle strength was assessed by measuring the amount of weight a participant could lift, by using a standardized weight-and-pulley system, during a 4-repetition-maximum test of knee extension, knee flexion, and ankle plantarflexion.


RESULTS
Both types of training improved SOT performance. This effect was larger in the combined group. Both groups could balance longer before falling, and this effect persisted for at least 4 weeks. Muscle strength increased marginally in the balance group and substantially in the combined group, and this effect persisted for at least 4 weeks.


CONCLUSIONS
Muscle strength and balance can be improved in persons with IPD by high-intensity resistance training and balance training.
Hirsch
Mark A
MA
Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Johns Hopkins University Medical Center, Baltimore, MD, USA.
Toole
Tonya
T
Maitland
Charles G
CG
Rider
Robert A
RA
D000058:Accidental Falls / Q000517:prevention & control; D000368:Aged; D000704:Analysis of Variance; D005081:Exercise Therapy / Q000379:methods; D005260:Female; D005684:Gait / Q000502:physiology; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D010300:Parkinson Disease / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D010806:Physical Education and Training / Q000379:methods*; D010807:Physical Endurance / Q000502:physiology*; D004856:Postural Balance / Q000502:physiology*; D011187:Posture / Q000502:physiology; D013718:Tensile Strength / Q000502:physiology; D016896:Treatment Outcome