Enhancing Muscle Strength and Balance in Parkinson’s Disease: The Role of Physical Therapy
Parkinson’s disease (PD), a progressive neurodegenerative disorder, poses significant challenges to those affected, particularly in maintaining muscle strength and balance. However, emerging research highlights the pivotal role of physical therapy in mitigating these challenges. According to Mak et al. (2017), physical therapy, specifically progressive resistance training (PRT), has shown promising results in improving muscle strength and balance in individuals with Parkinson’s disease.
The Vital Role of Physical Therapy in Parkinson’s Disease
Parkinson’s disease often leads to muscle weakness and impaired balance, affecting the quality of life and increasing the risk of falls. Physical therapy, as an integral part of PD management, focuses on enhancing muscle strength, aerobic capacity, and functional mobility (Mak et al., 2017). These improvements are crucial in countering the effects of PD, enabling individuals to maintain independence and improve their daily living activities.
Progressive Resistance Training: Strengthening Muscles and Improving Balance
Studies have shown that PRT can significantly enhance muscle strength in PD patients. This form of therapy involves exercises using machines for concentric resistance training or using an ergometer for eccentric resistance training. The intensity of these exercises is typically gauged by the concept of repetitive maximum, or through ratings of perceived exertion (Mak et al., 2017).
Importantly, PRT has also been linked to improvements in balance performance. This is measured using various scales such as the Berg Balance Scale (BBS) and the Mini Balance Evaluation Systems Test (miniBEST). These improvements in balance are critical in reducing the risk of falls, a common and dangerous complication in Parkinson’s disease.
Long-term Benefits and Recommendations
The long-term effects of PRT in PD patients have been particularly noteworthy. Regular engagement in PRT has been found to maintain these improvements over extended periods. Mak et al. (2017) suggest that a training period of more than three months might be required to achieve significant off-medication muscle strength improvements.
Conclusion
The journey through Parkinson’s disease is challenging, but physical therapy, especially progressive resistance training, offers a beacon of hope. By incorporating PRT into their treatment plans, individuals with PD can experience enhanced muscle strength and improved balance, leading to a better quality of life and greater independence.
Sources
Mak, M. K., Wong-Yu, I. S., Shen, X., & Chung, C. L. (2017). Long-term effects of exercise and physical therapy in people with Parkinson disease. Nature reviews. Neurology, 13(11), 689–703. https://doi.org/10.1038/nrneurol.2017.128