Stephanie A Combs-Miller1, Elizabeth S Moore1. 1. University of Indianapolis, Krannert School of Physical Therapy, Interprofessional Health and Aging Studies, Indianapolis, IN, USA.
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Exercise may modify disease progression in persons with Parkinson disease (PD). OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this longitudinal cohort study was to determine factors that predict motor, activity, and participation-based outcomes over two years in exercisers with PD. METHODS: A convenience sample with idiopathic PD was included in the analysis [n = 74; mean age 66.7(8.4) years; male 54%; median months post diagnosis 69.0(76.0), median Hoehn and Yahr score 1.0(2.0)]. Exercise behaviors (minutes of exercise/week, peak rate of perceived exertion (RPE) and mode of exercise) and outcomes of impairment [grip strength], activity [10-meter walk test, functional reach test, activity specific balance confidence scale] and participation [Parkinson Disease Questionnaire-39] were assessed at baseline, 6, 12, 18 and 24 months. RESULTS: Using generalized estimating equations at least one exercise behavior was a significant predictor across most of the models (p≤0.026), with higher RPE predicting better outcomes in all activity and participation domains. Younger age, male gender and lower disease severity also significantly predicted better outcomes over time (p≤0.041). CONCLUSIONS: Exercise behaviors contributed to activity and participation-based outcomes over two years in exercisers with PD. Participation in high-intensity exercise programs may enhance maintenance of health and function over time in individuals with PD.
BACKGROUND: Exercise may modify disease progression in persons with Parkinson disease (PD). OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this longitudinal cohort study was to determine factors that predict motor, activity, and participation-based outcomes over two years in exercisers with PD. METHODS: A convenience sample with idiopathic PD was included in the analysis [n = 74; mean age 66.7(8.4) years; male 54%; median months post diagnosis 69.0(76.0), median Hoehn and Yahr score 1.0(2.0)]. Exercise behaviors (minutes of exercise/week, peak rate of perceived exertion (RPE) and mode of exercise) and outcomes of impairment [grip strength], activity [10-meter walk test, functional reach test, activity specific balance confidence scale] and participation [Parkinson Disease Questionnaire-39] were assessed at baseline, 6, 12, 18 and 24 months. RESULTS: Using generalized estimating equations at least one exercise behavior was a significant predictor across most of the models (p≤0.026), with higher RPE predicting better outcomes in all activity and participation domains. Younger age, male gender and lower disease severity also significantly predicted better outcomes over time (p≤0.041). CONCLUSIONS: Exercise behaviors contributed to activity and participation-based outcomes over two years in exercisers with PD. Participation in high-intensity exercise programs may enhance maintenance of health and function over time in individuals with PD.