Effectiveness Of Balance Training Versus Coordination Exercise With Gait Training In Parkinson’s Disease

Abstract

Background:
Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by motor impairments such as bradykinesia, postural instability, rigidity, and gait disturbances. Among these, postural instability and impaired coordination significantly increase the risk of falls and functional dependence. Physiotherapy interventions like balance training and coordination exercises have shown promise in managing these deficits. However, limited evidence exists comparing their effectiveness when combined with gait training.

Objective:
To evaluate and compare the effectiveness of balance training versus coordination exercises, each combined with gait training, in improving balance and coordination in individuals with Parkinson’s disease.

Methodology:
A comparative interventional study was conducted at Aarupadai Veedu Medical College & Hospital and affiliated old-age homes in Puducherry. Sixteen participants aged 50–60 years with clinically diagnosed PD were selected using simple random sampling. They were assigned equally into two groups: Group A received balance training with gait drills, and Group B received coordination exercises with gait drills. The intervention lasted for four weeks, with four supervised sessions per week. Outcome measures included the Berg Balance Scale (BBS) and the Comprehensive Coordination Scale (CCS), assessed pre- and post-intervention.

Results:
Group A showed a statistically significant improvement in BBS scores (mean difference = 3.25; t = 8.88), while Group B also improved (mean difference = 1.12; t = 9.00). Both groups improved in coordination scores as well, with Group A (t = 5.00) and Group B (t = 7.51). However, between-group analysis using unpaired t-tests showed no significant difference in post-intervention BBS and CCS scores.

Conclusion:
Both balance and coordination exercises, when combined with gait training, are effective in improving motor outcomes in Parkinson’s disease. Although no significant difference was observed between the two interventions, therapy can be tailored based on individual deficits in balance or coordination.