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. 2012:2012:508720.
doi: 10.1155/2012/508720. Epub 2011 Sep 20.

A Manipulation of Visual Feedback during Gait Training in Parkinson's Disease

Quincy J Almeida  1 , Haseel Bhatt
Affiliations

A Manipulation of Visual Feedback during Gait Training in Parkinson's Disease

Quincy J Almeida et al. Parkinsons Dis. 2012.

Abstract

Visual cues are known to improve gait in Parkinson's disease (PD); however, the contribution of optic flow continues to be disputed. This study manipulated transverse line cues during two gait training interventions (6 weeks). PD subjects (N = 42) were assigned to one of three groups: treadmill (TG), overground (OG), or control group (CG). Participants walked across lines placed on either treadmills or 16-meter carpets, respectively. The treadmill (TG) offered a reduced dynamic flow from the environment, while lines presented on the ground (OG) emphasized optic flow related to the participant's own displacement. Both interventions significantly improved (and maintained through retention period) step length, thus improving walking velocity. Only the OG improved in the TUG test, while only the TG showed hints of improving (and maintaining) motor symptoms. Since gait improvements were found in both training groups, we conclude that by reducing optic flow, gait benefits associated with visual cueing training can still be achieved.

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Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1
Step length significantly improves in TG and OG after six weeks (posttest) and is maintained after 12 weeks (retention test).
Figure 2
Figure 2
Velocity increases ~10 cm/s after 12-weeks (retention test) in only TG and OG.
Figure 3
Figure 3
Examination of TUG times reveals a short-term main effect in PD OG.
Figure 4
Figure 4
Motor scores showed at trend in improving symptoms in the TG, while the OG and CG seem to worsen symptoms.
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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