Exercício aquático com dupla-tarefa para pacientes com doença de Parkinson avançada

Abstract

Aim: to evaluate the effect of 4 weeks of aquatic walking with dual-motor task on motor function of severe Parkinson Disease patients. Method: Twelve PD patients were divided into exercise (EG=7) and control (CG=5) groups. The EG completed 12 sessions of 30 min walking into deep water while executing dual-task, at moderate intensity, during 4 weeks with motor function (Unified Parkinson Disease’s Rate Scale III and Senior Fitness Test) measures taken before and after this period. Normality and homogeneity of variances were checked by Shapiro-Wilk and Lavene’s test respectively. Data of parametric variable are presented in mean and SD as well as in median and interquartile range for non-parametric variable. Data from the SFT was normalized by logarithmic transformation. Independent t test was used to compare parametric variables of the sample characterization, and Mann-Whitney U test, for non-parametric. ANOVA Split-splot (2x2) with Bonferroni’s post hoc was applied for comparison inter and intra-groups of all dependent variable. Size effect was calculated by Eta squared (η 2 p ) and Cohen’s d, with a significance of p<0,05. Results: PD patients yielded significant improvement of motor function pre-post exercise, with a moderate effect (p>0,001; d=0,44). Bradykinesia (p=0,001), agility (p=0,001) and postural balance (p=0,04) also expressed significant changes individually. Conclusion: Regular aerobic exercise with cognitive-motor interference stimuli may counteract the motor symptoms of PD neurodegeneration.