This is an exploratory study to assess the impact of whole body vibration on backward walking speed in people with Parkinson disease.
This study will provide valuable information towards the relationship between backward walking using the 3-minute backward walk test and whole body vibration (WBV). The 3MBWT has shown to have diagnostic accuracy for fall prediction in older adults. The 3MBWT has been found to be feasible within the acute stroke population. In a study, the 3MBWT revealed that in the geriatric population a score of more than 4.5 seconds were likely to report a fall history. Gait parameters including a decrease in gait velocity (p\<0.01) have been found to worsen while performing dual tasks (serial-7 subtraction) in individuals with PD. Research has shown when compared to other cognitive tests, the "serial sevens" tests increased the time required to perform the Timed Up and Go in individuals with PD. This study will use a control group performing mid-squats on level ground and an intervention group performing mid-squats on a WBV machine. Each group will perform 5 sets of mid-squats for 60 seconds with a 60 second rest period between each set. Pre and post testing will involve three trials of the 3MBWT. The purpose of this study is to determine the immediate impact of WBV on backward walking velocity in individuals diagnosed with PD.
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Allocation
NON_RANDOMIZED
Purpose
TREATMENT
Masking
NONE
Enrollment
26
WBV is a platform that vibrates while a person stands or sits and performs exercises. The WBV session will consist of 5 sets of 60 seconds set at 6 Hertz (frequency), 3 mm (amplitude) while performing mid-squats. There will be a 1 minute rest in between each set. These parameters were chosen as commonly used parameters in previous studies of WBV in people with PD.
Mid-squats performed on level ground 5 repetitions of 60 seconds with 1 minute rest in between each set.
Baylor University
Waco, Texas, United States
3-meter backward walk test (3MBWT)
The 3MBWT has excellent intrarater reliability as a backward walking velocity assessment. This standardized measure demonstrates diagnostic accuracy for predicting falls within a year in healthy older adults and people with Parkinson disease. Participants stand with their heel touching a line of tape on the floor and are instructed to initiate backward walking at the verbal cue "start" and to continue until instructed to stop (3 meters) by the tester guarding. The average of 3 trials is the score.
Time frame: 5 minutes
This platform is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional.