In a nutshell
This study evaluated the effects of split-belt treadmill (SBT) versus tied-belt treadmill (TBT) training on gait adaptation in patients with Parkinson’s disease (PD). The data showed that SBT training significantly improved gait adaptation compared to TBT in these patients.
Some background
PD is a disorder in which part of the brain is progressively damaged over many years. The disease affects certain brain cells and causes movement symptoms such as muscle rigidity, tremors, and impaired balance. Patients can see their gait affected due to symptoms such as slow movements and abnormal posture. A lack of movement of the trunk, upper body, and lower body muscles characterize an impaired gait. This results in slow and alternate steps that are short and rapid.
Split-belt treadmill (SBT) training has been used to improve gait in patients with stroke. An SBT has two belts that can drive each leg at a different speed or in a different direction. A tied-belt treadmill (TBT) consists of a single belt that runs at the same speed in the same direction. Whether SBT training improves gait adaptation in patients with PD is still unknown.
Methods & findings
This study involved 52 patients with PD. 27 patients received SBT training and 25 patients received TBT training. Training consisted of 4 weeks of supervised treadmill training delivered three times per week. Turning and gait were assessed over-ground and during a gait adaptation protocol on the treadmill. Tests were conducted before and after training and at a 4-week follow-up.
SBT training was associated with more significant improvements in gait adaptation compared to TBT. These effects were retained at the 4-week follow-up.
In both SBT- and TBT- groups, over-ground walking and movement scores improved. However, better gait adaptation did not transfer to over-ground turning speed.
The bottom line
This study concluded that SBT training significantly improved gait adaptation compared to TBT in patients with PD. However, better gait adaptation did not transfer to over-ground turning speed.
The fine print
The sample size was very small. The patients knew which treatment they were getting which might influence the conclusions. Larger studies are needed.
Published By :
Movement disorders: official journal of the Movement Disorder Society
Date :
Oct 14, 2022
