Measuring the effectiveness of an intensive rehabilitation treatment on balance parameters in patients with parkinson’s disease through a stabilometric platform

Abstract

Falls are the most disabling symptom in patients with PD, and balance disorder is the most important factor involved in its genesis. We have studied the effects of our multidisciplinary intensive rehabilitation treatment (MIRT) on balance disorders in PD. 30 PD patients underwent clinical and instrumental evaluations at the beginning (T0) and at the end (T1) of the MIRT. To determine some variables as index of postural stability, we used a stabilometric platform. With respect to the average centre of gravity, total, antero-posterior [AP] and mediolateral [ML] standard deviations (SD) of trunk sway were calculated. We have also obtained a statokinesigram and the area of the ellipse containing 90% of the sampled positions of the center of pressure. Statistical analysis showed significant differences in the SD of trunk sway between T0 and T1. These preliminary results are consistent with literature data and confirm the disruption of the complex mechanisms of balance control in PD. There is increasing evidence that physical therapy can improve postural stability and reduce the risk of falls. We are confident that our findings will provide new knowledge and highlight the importance of an early balance training in PD.