Effects of a Highly Challenging Balance Training Program on Motor Function and Brain Structure in Parkinson's Disease.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Parkinson's disease (PD) is characterized by motor deficits and brain alterations having a detrimental impact on balance, gait, and cognition. Intensive physical exercise can induce changes in the neural system, potentially counteracting neurodegeneration in PD and improving clinical symptoms.

Objective

This randomized controlled trial investigated effects of a highly challenging, cognitively demanding, balance and gait training (HiBalance) program in participants with PD on brain structure.

Methods

95 participants were assigned to either the HiBalance or an active control speech training program. The group-based interventions were performed in 1-hour sessions, twice per week over a 10-week period. Participants underwent balance, gait, cognitive function, a

SUBMITTER: Albrecht F 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC8673526 | biostudies-literature | 2021

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature