Effects of Physical Therapy on Ankle Proprioception and Postural Control in People with Parkinson’s: A Semi-experimental Clinical Trial

Abstract

Background

Proprioceptive sensory integration is impaired in people with Parkinson's (PwP), affecting control of the posture.

Objective

The goal of this study was to examine the effects of proprioceptive exercises on improvement of the ankle proprioception acuity, functional mobility, postural control, and quality of life of PwP.

Methods

Sixteen PwP participated in this semi-experimental clinical trial to receive proprioceptive exercises over 10 weeks. Ankle kinesthesia and repositioning acuity, four square step test, center of pressure-related balance metrics, and PDQ-39 questionnaire were measured.

Results

Ankle kinesthesia in plantarflexion is improved after the exercises (p = 0.033). Four square step test time was significantly decreased (∼780 ms) after proprioceptive exercises (p = 0.008). Significant decreases in closed eyes postural metrics of the center of pressure's maximum excursion (p = 0.008), maximum velocity (p = 0.035), total mean velocity (p = 0.004), range (p = 0.002), and variability (p = 0.002) indicated reduced instabilities. Significant correlations between the proprioception and postural metrics in closed eyes standing before the exercises were vanished to corroborate the role of improved proprioception in boosted postural control. PDQ-39 scores was also significantly decreased after the exercises (p = 0.021).

Conclusions

Proprioceptive exercises over 10 weeks improved proprioception in people with Parkinson's that caused reduced postural instabilities and consequently increased their quality of life.