Schenkman M, Hall D, Kumar R, Kohrt WM
In this case report, the effects of endurance exercise training are examined on walking economy and other measures for 3 individuals in early and middle stages of PD. The patients were 1 woman and 2 men with PD, aged 52 to 72 years, classified at Hoehn and Yahr stages 2 to 2.5. Each patient completed 4 months of supervised endurance exercise training and 12 months of home exercise, with monthly clinic follow-up sessions. Economy of movement improved for all 3 patients after 4 months of supervised exercise and remained above baseline at 16 months. Evidence from these 3 individuals suggests that gains may occur with a treadmill training program that is coupled with specific strategies to enhance adherence to exercise.
Physical Therapy, Oct 2007, online article ahead of print