Effects of Dual-Task Training in Postural Stability in Parkinson’s Disease

Objective(s): The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of dual-task training on postural stability during static and dynamic conditions for individuals with Parkinson’s Disease (PD).

Data Sources: Electronic Databases such as Cochrane Library, CINAHL Complete, PubMed, Google Scholar, EMSCO, Medline, and science direct were searched for English-language articles while utilizing search terms such as Parkinson’s Disease, dual-task prioritization, dual-task improve postural sway, dual-task training, intervention, rehabilitation, physical therapy, postural stability, postural sway, balance, automaticity of balance, and effectiveness.

Study Selection: A total of 17 studies were identified. Research articles were excluded if not published from 2000-20021 or relevancy if they did not examine dual-task training pertaining to postural stability in patients with PD. Upon further evaluation, 5 studies were excluded due to no meeting inclusion criteria. Ultimately, 12 studies met the inclusion criteria and were used in this systematic review.

Data Extraction: Limited research studies and evidence hinder the evaluation of the quality of evidence. The research reviewers utilized a modified PICOT framework to extract the data collected.

Data Synthesis: The majority of evidence suggests that PD patients struggle with postural control automaticity, and automaticity progressively declines as disease progresses. Research also indicates that this automaticity can be improved with rehabilitation. Evidence also suggests that PD patients perform better on the task they are prioritizing, and the secondary tasks suffer.

Conclusions: The complexity and many variables involved in dual-tasks for patients with PD make identifying a specific intervention that will be successful. Further evidence is needed to determine the many unknown or contradicted variables that can help improve dual tasking for patients with PD. Furthermore, future studies should investigate dual-task training on postural stability and its potential to reduce fall risk, improve outcome measures, and lead to improved functional mobility. What we have found based on current evidence is that dual-task training shows to be effective when the step and gait automaticity can be improved.

Author(s) Disclosures: there are no conflict of interest associated with this study for any of the authors.