Effect of slope walking on balance and gait in Parkinson’s patients – Randomized control trial

Abstract

Balance and Gait disturbances is common feature in Parkinson’s disease (PD). An abnormal stooped posture contributes to development of festinating gait pattern, Characterized by a progressive increase in speed with a shorting of stride. Gait disorders, balance impairment, falls, and fall related injuries are present in PD patients. Walking on slope increases the activity levels in some of the lower extremity muscles and may be an excellent way to improve muscle strength and increase endurance.

Objectives

To study effect of slope and ground level walking on balance and gait in Parkinson’s patients.

Method and methodology

Total number of 30 patients between the age 50-80 years with diagnosed Parkinson’s disease since 1 year were selected by simple random sampling. Berg balance scale, timed up and go and dynamic gait index were used to assess balance and gait pre and post intervention. Participants were divided in 2 groups, Group A was given Slope walking training, Group B was given ground level walking.

Results

After comparing pre and post intervention data using paired and unpaired t test results showed, there was significant improvement on balance(p<0.0001) and gait(p<0.0013) in Parkinson’s patients.

Conclusion

There is significant effect of slope walking than ground level walking on balance and gait in Parkinson’s patients.