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Normative data for arm swing asymmetry: how (a)symmetrical are we?
A Plate1, D Sedunko1, O Pelykh2
1Department of Neurology, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, Marchioninistr. 15, 81377 Munich, Germany.
Gait & Posture
|December 3, 2014
Summary
Arm swing asymmetry can indicate early Parkinson's disease. Healthy individuals show variability, but significant asymmetry, especially during mental tasks, may signal the condition.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Biomechanics
- Gait Analysis
Background:
- Arm swing asymmetry is a potential early indicator of Parkinson's disease.
- Limited data exists on physiological ranges of arm swing asymmetry.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the normal range of arm swing asymmetry in healthy individuals.
- To assess the impact of age, gender, and dual-tasking on arm swing asymmetry.
- To compare arm swing asymmetry in healthy subjects versus early Parkinson's disease patients.
Main Methods:
- Kinematic data of 60 healthy subjects (aged 40-75) were collected using an ultrasound motion capture system during treadmill walking.
- Arm swing asymmetry was analyzed under varying treadmill velocities and two different mental load conditions (dual-tasking).
- A small cohort of 7 early Parkinson's disease patients was also evaluated.
Main Results:
- Arm swing amplitude and asymmetry varied significantly among healthy subjects.
- Elderly participants exhibited greater arm swing than younger ones.
- A demanding mental task induced significant asymmetry, reducing right-side arm swing.
- Parkinson's patients displayed higher asymmetry, further exacerbated by mental tasks.
- An asymmetry index above 50 suggests abnormality.
Conclusions:
- Arm swing asymmetry assessment can be a valuable component of diagnostic tools for early Parkinson's disease.
- This evaluation is crucial for monitoring disease progression and treatment efficacy, especially with emerging disease-modifying therapies.
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