Physical therapy and listening to music improves the quality of life of patients with Parkinson´s disease.

This study investigated the effectiveness of a treatment program with physical therapy and music (PTM) for patients with Parkinson´s disease. Researchers suggested that PTM improved the quality of life of these patients. 

Parkinson´s disease affects brain cells. These cells stop controlling body functions which cause symptoms such as tremors. 

Music stimulates the brain with an emotional, physical, and mental impact. It helps in the recovery of brain injuries and diseases such as Parkinson´s disease. Prior studies suggested that music therapy provided auditory cues (sound signals) that help the start of movements. Patients see an improvement in walking ability, balance, freezing, and tremors. Improvements in mental symptoms such as anxiety and depression are also common. However, the effects of combining physical therapy and music (PTM) in patients with Parkinson´s disease are still not clear. 

This study included information about 32 patients with Parkinson´s disease. All patients received treatment for 2.5 hours daily for 14 days. Patients were assigned to receive PTM (16) or physical therapy alone. Patients were assessed before the start of PTM and one month after. 

Patients in the PTM group had greater improvements in Parkinson´s symptoms when comparing with patients who did not receive PTM. Positive effects were also seen in the PTM group for daily activities, emotional wellbeing, social support, communication, and body discomfort. 

This study concluded that PTM improved the quality of life in patients with Parkinson´s disease. 

This study included a limited number of participants and had a short duration. Further studies with larger populations and extended follow-up are necessary.