Comparison of Vestibular and Dual-Task Rehabilitation in Parkinson's Disease

Condition(s) studied

Investigational drug(s) / intervention(s)

Vestibular Rehabilitation: Vestibular exercises will consist of static and dynamic balance exercises, VOR and eye movement training, central balance strategies and static-dynamic balance, adaptation, substitution, habituation exercises in terms of adapting to the balance system.

Cognitive-Motor Dual Task Activities: In the Cognitive-Motor Dual Task Activities Group, patients will be given additional cognitive tasks (e.g. counting months, subtracting 5 from 100, etc.) in line with the physiotherapist's commands simultaneously with balance and functional activities (such as stepping forwards-sideways-backwards, sitting-standing).

Study summary

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a long-term condition that affects movement, balance, and thinking abilities. It can cause tremor, stiffness, slow movements, and difficulty maintaining balance. In addition to these physical problems, many people with PD also experience difficulties with memory, attention, and other cognitive functions. The balance system in the inner ear (vestibular system) helps maintain posture and orientation, but this system may not work properly in people with PD.

This study aims to compare two different types of exercise programs to improve movement, balance, and cognitive abilities in individuals with PD. One program focuses on exercises that stimulate the balance system (vestibular rehabilitation), while the other combines thinking and movement activities at the same time (dual-task training).

Thirty-six people with PD will take part in the study. Participants will be randomly assigned to one of three groups: vestibular exercise group, dual-task exercise group, or control group. Exercises will be done under the supervision of a physiotherapist twice a week for eight weeks. Each session will last about 40 minutes and include activities that are safe, structured, and personalized.

Before and after the 8-week program, participants will complete simple tests that measure their memory, attention, walking ability, balance, and daily activity level. The results will show whether these exercise approaches can help improve both body and brain functions.

The findings of this study are expected to help physiotherapists design more effective and personalized rehabilitation programs for people with Parkinson's disease, leading to better balance, safer movement, and improved quality of life.

Eligibility

Primary outcome measure(s)

• Mini-BESTest Total Score — Baseline and Week 8
  Dynamic balance will be assessed using the Mini-BESTest, consisting of 14 items scored from 0-2. The total score (0-28) will be used as the primary outcome, with higher scores indicating better balance and postural control. Unit of Measure: Points (0-28)
• Semantic Verbal Fluency Test (Semantic Fluency, 60 seconds) — Baseline and Week 8
  Participants will name as many semantic-category words as possible within 60 seconds. The outcome will be the total number of correct words produced. Unit of Measure: Number of words

Trial sites (1)

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