Music Therapy and Dance as Gait Rehabilitation in Patients With Parkinson Disease: A Review of Evidence

Abstract

Aim: This review aims to demonstrate the efficiency of music and dance for gait improvement and symptom alleviation in Parkinson disease.

Methodology: Studies that analyzed sound stimuli and dance in gait improvement in Parkinson disease were searched through PubMed, Scopus, Doaj, MEDLINE, and ScienceDirect databases from November 2017 to April 2018 and repeated in September 2018.

Results and discussion: Forty-five studies met the inclusion criteria to synthesize the findings on dance and music performance as a treatment for classical symptoms of Parkinson disease. Five reviews and 40 experimental papers have shown that rhythmic stimulation and dance provide the motor, cognitive, and quality of life benefits for participants with Parkinson disease. Thus, sound stimuli and dance offer satisfactory effects for gait, improving cognitive abilities such as motor control and adjustment and spatial memory. In addition, these new treatment modalities stimulate the elderly population to practice physical exercise, generating well-being and helping self-esteem.

Conclusion: Dance and music therapy interventions are noninvasive, simple treatment options, which promote gait and cognition.

Keywords: Parkinson disease; dance; gait; music therapy; rehabilitation.