Brisk Walking Boosts Physical and Mental Symptoms in Parkinson's Disease Patients

Walking is essential for Parkinson's disease patients, according to a new study which found that it helps boost physical and mental symptoms of those suffering from it.

A chronic and progressive disorder of the nervous system that affects the patient's movements is called Parkinson's disease. It is estimated that each year nearly 60,000 Americans are diagnosed with Parkinson's disease. It is the 14^th leading cause of death in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. When compared to women, men are more likely to develop the disease. It is caused by insufficient dopamine production in the brain.

Parkinson's disease affects the motor system, produced trembling stiffness, slows down movement and causes impaired balance. Researchers at the University of Iowa claim that all these symptoms can be alleviated by brisk walking. Regular walking not just boosts the motor function, mood, tiredness and fitness of the patients, but also improves thinking abilities in those with mild to moderate Parkinson's disease.

"The results of our study suggest that walking may provide a safe and easily accessible way of improving the symptoms of Parkinson's disease and improve quality of life," said study author Dr. Ergun Uc, associate professor of neurology at the University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine.

The study involved 60 people who were diagnosed with mild to moderate Parkinson's disease. They participated in sessions of walking at moderate intensity. During this task they were fitted with heart rate monitors three times a week for 45 minutes per session for six months. They also participated in tests that measured their motor functions, aerobic fitness, mood tiredness, and memory and thinking abilities.

The average walking speed of the participants was 2.9 miles per hour and the participants exercised at 47 percent of their heart rate reserve that meets the definition of moderate intensity aerobic exercise.

The researchers observed that those who were involved in brisk walking showed a 15 percent improvement in their motor function as well as mood.  Their attention/response control scored improved by 14 percent and tiredness dropped by 11 percent. There was an increase in aerobic fitness and gait speed by 7 percent. The patients also exhibited an average improvement of 2.8 points on motor function tests.

"People with mild-moderate Parkinson's who do not have dementia and are able to walk independently without a cane or walker can safely follow the recommended exercise guidelines for healthy adults, which includes 150 minutes per week of moderate intensity aerobic activity, and experience benefits," said Uc, who is also a member of the American Academy of Neurology.

The researchers will confirm the results of this study in a randomized study with control group.

The study was documented in the medical journal of the American Academy of Neurology.