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Published on: July 16, 2014
Functional magnetic stimulation in constipation associated with Parkinson's disease
Cheng-Ming Chiu1, Chih-Pin Wang, Wen-Hsu Sung
1Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Far Eastern Memorial Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan, ROC.
Journal of Rehabilitation Medicine
|November 7, 2009
Summary
Functional magnetic stimulation significantly improved colonic transit time and recto-anal function in Parkinson's disease patients. These positive effects on colonic motility and anorectal angle were sustained at 3-month follow-up.
Area of Science:
- Neurogastroenterology
- Gastrointestinal Motility Disorders
- Neurological Rehabilitation
Background:
- Parkinson's disease frequently causes gastrointestinal dysfunction, particularly constipation, impacting quality of life.
- Colonic transit time and anorectal manometry are key indicators of lower gastrointestinal function.
- Current treatments for constipation in Parkinson's disease have limitations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of functional magnetic stimulation (FMS) on colonic transit time in Parkinson's disease (PD) patients.
- To assess changes in recto-anal function and defecation dynamics following FMS.
- To determine the durability of FMS effects through a 3-month follow-up.
Main Methods:
- A prospective, before-after trial involving 16 Parkinson's disease patients.
- A 3-week protocol of twice-daily 20-minute functional magnetic stimulation sessions.
- Measurements included colonic transit time, symptom questionnaires, and defecography before and after intervention.
Main Results:
- Statistically significant reductions in colonic transit time and constipation symptom scores were observed post-intervention.
- Significant improvements in anorectal angle dynamics during rest and evacuation were noted.
- Pelvic floor descent also showed significant changes, indicating improved defecation mechanics.
Conclusions:
- Functional magnetic stimulation effectively enhances colonic motility and improves anorectal angle in Parkinson's disease patients.
- The observed therapeutic benefits demonstrate sustained efficacy over a 3-month period.
- FMS presents a promising non-invasive therapeutic option for managing constipation and defecation disorders in Parkinson's disease.
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