Feldenkrais method and functionality in Parkinson’s disease: a randomized controlled clinical trial

• Published in: International journal on disability and human development : IJDHD 2017-02, Vol.16 (1), p.59-66
• Main Authors: Teixeira-Machado, Lavinia, de Araújo, Fernanda M., Menezes, Mayara A., Cunha, Fabiane A., Menezes, Thainá, Ferreira, Clecia da S., DeSantana, Josimari M.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Clinical trials; Mobility; Neurodegeneration; Parkinson's disease; Parkinson’s disease (PD); Physical therapy; physical therapy modalities; postural balance
• ISSN: 2191-1231; 2191-0367
• DOI: 10.1515/ijdhd-2016-0006

AbstractThe second most common age-related chronic neurodegenerative disease after Alzheimer’s disease is Parkinson’s disease (PD).Objective: The focus of this study was to improve the functional capabilities of the participants with PD.Study groups: The PD participants were randomized into two groups: Feldenkrais and control.Methods: The Feldenkrais group underwent 50 sessions of an exercise program based on the Feldenkrais method. The control group received educational lectures during this period. Unified Parkinson’s Disease Rate Scale (UPDRS – session III), mini-mental state evaluation (MMSE), Hoehn and Yahr scale, and functional tests (figure-of-eight walk test, timed-up-and-go test, rollover task, 360 degrees turn-in-place, functional-reach test, sitting-and-standing test, Berg balance scale (BBS), and hip-flexion strength) were assessed in both groups. Procedures during the 50 sessions were conducted in an appropriate room, twice-a-week, on alternate days and lasted 60 min.Results: Thirty subjects were randomly divided into two groups: the Feldenkrais (n=15) and the control (n=15) group. The Feldenkrais group presented significantly better in functional tests (p