Physical exercise prevents falls in patients with Parkinson´s disease

This study investigated the effects of physical exercise in the improvement of gait and balance and reduction of falls in patients with Parkinson´s disease (PD). Researchers suggested that physical training improves gait ability and balance in these patients.

Falls are common in patients with PD which can lead to physical injuries and negative psychological effects. Movement instability and loss of balance are directly related to falls. These symptoms respond poorly to PD medications. Previous studies evaluated the effects of physical exercise in patients with PD. However, it is not clear if physical training is associated with a reduction in falls.

This study analyzed 25 other studies including patients with PD who underwent physical training. The follow-up periods ranged from 4 weeks (short-term results) to 12 months (long-term results).

The results showed that patients who underwent physical training to improve gait and balance had a 51.5% lower risk of falling on the short-term. In the long-term, these patients had a 58.7% lower risk of falling.

This study determined that physical exercise improves gait ability and balance which prevent falls in patients with PD.

Talk to your healthcare team about physical training for Parkinson's disease.