[Motor activity enablement by sensory stimuli in Parkinson's disease]

In this paper we review the most significant studies that deal with the motor enablement experienced by patients with Parkinson's disease in the presence of external rhythmic auditory or visual signals; the different possible causes underlying this enablement are also discussed.

The improvements to movement that can be achieved using external stimuli in patients suffering from Parkinson are well documented in the literature. This is why sensory stimulus has become one of the most important points of reference within the rehabilitative strategies that attempt to alleviate the motor difficulties these patients display. Yet, the neurophysiological mechanisms underlying this sensorial enablement have still to be determined.

The data we currently have available allows us to consider this type of technique as a useful instrument for improving the motor autonomy of patients with Parkinson and which should be taken into account by health care professionals.