Efficacy of exercises in early-stage Parkinson’s disease (PARK-EASE trial): single-blind, randomised, controlled trial

Abstract

ObjectivesTo assess the efficacy of exercises in early-stage Parkinson’s disease (PD).DesignSingle-blind, randomised controlled trial.SettingTertiary rehabilitation care centre.ParticipantsForty individuals (≥18 years, either gender) with newly diagnosed PD (Hoehn and Yahr stage ≤2) on a stable dose of PD medications were randomised (1:1) to the intervention group (IG) and control group (CG).InterventionsThe IG received strengthening (30 min/day, 2 days/week), aerobic (30 min/day, 3 days/week) and agility (30 min/day, 2 days/week) exercises in a structured format for 12 weeks. CG received stretching exercises for 12 weeks.Main outcome measuresUnified PD Rating Scale (UPDRS) III (motor) at week 12 (primary), UPDRS I (mentation, behaviour and mood), UPDRS II and VI (Schwab and England Activities of daily living Scale) and Parkinson’s Disease Quality of Life (PDQL) at week 12 (secondary).Results36 participants completed 12-week study period. UPDRS III (lesser scores reflect improvement) at 12 weeks showed a significant between-group difference (−5.05 points (95% CI: −9.38 to −0.71), p=0.02). At 4 and 8 weeks, UPDRS III did not show a statistically significant between-group difference (−2.15 points (95% CI: −6.77 to 2.47) and −4.1 points (95% CI: −8.54 to 0.34), respectively). From baseline to 12 weeks, UPDRS III in the IG showed a 6.5-point (95% CI (4.85 to 8.14)) reduction, and the CG showed a 0.8-point increase (95% CI (−3.06 to 1.46)), PDQL (higher scores reflect improvement) in the IG showed a 8.45-point (95% CI (–12.78 to –4.11)) increase and CG showed a 2.75-point (95% CI (0.16 to 5.33)) reduction.ConclusionsStructured exercises improve motor symptoms and quality of life in early-stage PD. Consistent adherence for at least 12 weeks is crucial for clinical improvement. Early initiation of exercises as neurorehabilitation is recommended. Further research on specific types, dosing and intensity of exercises with a larger sample size is warranted in early-stage PD.Trial registration numberCTRI/2018/05/014241.