Practice, progress and future directions for physical therapies in Huntingtons disease

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Physical Therapy
• Exercise Science

Background:

• Huntington's disease (HD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder.
• Physical interventions are being explored for their potential disease-modifying effects in HD.
• Previous small-scale studies suggest benefits from physical activity and exercise in HD patients.

Purpose of the Study:

• To conduct a narrative review of existing literature on physical activity, physical therapy, and exercise in individuals with Huntington's disease.
• To evaluate the reporting standards of physical intervention studies in HD.
• To identify areas for improvement in the design and reporting of future clinical trials.

Main Methods:

• A narrative literature review was performed using a Population, Intervention, Comparison, Outcome (PICO) approach.
• Eight studies meeting specific inclusion criteria were systematically reviewed.
• Studies were assessed for their conduct and reporting standards, including intervention details, adherence, and adverse events.

Main Results:

• All eight reviewed studies detailed intervention components, location, and duration.
• Most interventions involved balance training and activities of daily living, requiring therapist supervision.
• Reporting on adherence rates (60-80% in 3/8 studies) and adverse events was limited, with no adverse events reported in any study.

Conclusions:

• While physical therapies show potential in Huntington's disease management, clearer reporting of intervention protocols is crucial.
• Improved reporting standards will enhance understanding of exercise and physical therapy impacts on HD symptoms.
• Standardized reporting is essential for future trial replication and clinical implementation, especially alongside emerging disease-modifying treatments.