Exercise for People with Parkinson's Disease: Updates and Future Considerations.

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Physical Therapy
• Exercise Science

Background:

• Parkinson's disease (PD) is the fastest-growing neurological disorder globally.
• Early signs like reduced physical activity and pre-clinical disability often precede diagnosis.
• Global guidelines recommend early physiotherapy referral upon PD diagnosis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the importance of early diagnosis and physical function management in PD.
• To review the benefits of exercise and physiotherapy in managing PD symptoms.
• To explore the role of technology in supporting exercise adherence and remote care for PD patients.

Main Methods:

• Review of accumulating evidence from longitudinal studies on exercise and PD.
• Analysis of contemporary physiotherapy interventions incorporating health behavior change.
• Examination of technological advancements in remote assessment, monitoring, and support for PD management.

Main Results:

• Multiple exercise forms benefit motor and non-motor PD symptoms.
• Sustained exercise over time demonstrably delays disability progression.
• Physiotherapy interventions combining exercise with behavior change promote long-term adherence.

Conclusions:

• Exercise is an essential, evidence-based treatment for Parkinson's disease.
• Technology offers new avenues for remote support and adherence strategies.
• Physiotherapists play a vital role in advocacy, education, and care delivery for individuals with PD.