Contributions of physical exercise to motor symptoms and the balance of people with Parkinson's Disease: a systematic review

Abstract

Objective: The aim of the study was to conduct a systematic review evaluating the effects of physical exercise on balance and motor symptoms of Parkinson’s Disease. Method: The search was carried out on the PubMed, Scielo and PEDro databases. The articles were evaluated by two independent researchers, following the criteria: presenting a control group, having more than eight weeks of intervention, assessing motor symptoms (Unified Parkinson’s Disease Rating Scale and Parkinson’s Disease Questionnaire -39) and balance (Timed Up and Go and Berg Scale). Results: The search resulted in 1377 articles, of which 11 were included in the study. The total number of participants was 925, in which 545 were allocated in the intervention groups and 380 in the control groups. The strength training and balance, performed alone or in combination, are highlighted in improvements related to balance. Exercise, regardless of type, improves motor symptoms. Conclusions: Thus, physical exercise has a positive effect on both balance and motor symptoms of Parkinson’s Disease, strength and balance modalities stand out.