To evaluate and compare the functional and intersegmental coordinative responses of gait in individuals with PD who participate in different locomotion training programs, NW and DWW.
Nineteen male and females with PD (aged between 57 and 86 years, classified as stage 1 to 4 on the Hoehn & Yahr scale) were evaluated. The individuals performed the 10-meter walking test under five conditions: self-selected walking speed (SSWS), maximum walking speed (MWS), dual-task arithmetic (DTA), semantic (DTS), and motor (DTM) tasks. For Functionality they performed Timed Up and Go (TUG) and Test to Sit and Get Up Five Times (SG). A neural network, previously trained, was used to evaluate the coordinative parameters of gait analysis. A t-test was employed to determine differences between the groups.
SSWS was significantly smaller (p.001) in NW (0.71 m/s) compared to DWW (1.21 m/s). MWS was also smaller (p=0.006) in NW (0.97 m/s) than in DWW (1.56 m/s). Under dual-task walking conditions, NW again showed lower results: DTA was 0.69 m/s in NW versus 1.05 m/s in DWW (p=0.010); DTS was 0.77 m/s in NW compared to 1.13 m/s in DWW (p=0.011); and DTM was 0.87 m/s in NW, while it was 1.21 m/s in DWW (p=0.008). However, functionality tests showed no significant difference (p = 0.125 to TUG and p = 0.328 for SG).
Dual-tasking significantly impacted the speed and kinematic variables of gait in individuals with Parkinson's disease. Participants in the DWW program showed better results in functional performance and coordination outcomes when compared to the results of the nordic walking program.
The results of this study may assist evaluators, expanding the understanding of dual-task effects on functionality and locomotion in people with Parkinson's. In addition, our data may inspire clinicians in prescribing non-pharmacological interventions for this population.
Water Based Exercise
Nordic Walking
