The effects of balance training and high-intensity resistance training on persons with idiopathic Parkinson's disease.

OBJECTIVE

To assess immediate and near-term effects of 2 exercise training programs for persons with idiopathic Parkinson's disease (IPD).

DESIGN

Randomized control trial.

SETTING

Public health facility and medical center.

PARTICIPANTS

Fifteen persons with IPD.

INTERVENTION

Combined group (balance and resistance training) and balance group (balance training only) underwent 10 weeks of high-intensity resistance training (knee extensors and flexors, ankle plantarflexion) and/or balance training under altered visual and somatosensory sensory conditions, 3 times a week on nonconsecutive days. Groups were assessed before, immediately after training, and 4 weeks later.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Balance was assessed by computerized dynamic posturography, which determined the subject's response to reduced or altered visual and somatosensory orientation cues (Sensory Orientation Test [SOT]). Muscle strength was assessed by measuring the amount of weight a participant could lift, by using a standardized weight-and-pulley system, during a 4-repetition-maximum test of knee extension, knee flexion, and ankle plantarflexion.

RESULTS

Both types of training improved SOT performance. This effect was larger in the combined group. Both groups could balance longer before falling, and this effect persisted for at least 4 weeks. Muscle strength increased marginally in the balance group and substantially in the combined group, and this effect persisted for at least 4 weeks.

CONCLUSION

Muscle strength and balance can be improved in persons with IPD by high-intensity resistance training and balance training.