THE IMPACT OF A PHYSICAL THERAPY REGIMEN ON MOTOR FUNCTION IN PEOPLE WITH PARKINSON'S DISEASE

The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of a 10-week physical therapy exercise on motor function in people with Parkinson disease. Twenty four male Parkinson disease patients were participated in this study voluntary. Subjects were randomized into the experimental (n=12) or control group (n=12). Before and after the intervention in both groups, subject's motor function was assessed using Short Parkinson Evaluation Scale/ Scale for Outcomes in Parkinson Disease (SPES/SCOPA) questionnaire, under supervising of a physiotherapist. During the 10-week physical therapy period, subjects in the control group were treated only by their pharmacological therapy; however, subjects in the experimental group in conjunction with their standard medical therapy, were participated in 1h physical therapy sessions forth a week. Data analysis demonstrated that, regarding motor function of subjects, there were no significant differences between two groups at base line; however after treatment, all subscales of motor function between two groups were significantly different. In the experimental group, the intervention improved all sub-scales of motor function significantly; though, no significant changes observed within the control group. Physical therapy in conjunction with standard medical therapy, could affect motor function of people with Parkinson's disease positively and therefore can be beneficial for them.