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Music May Improve Walking in People with Parkinson’s Disease - UF Study
Bachmann, Mallory. “Music-Based Rhythm Improves Gait in Parkinson’s Patients.” UF Health, April 22, 2026, https://ufhealth.org/news/2026/music-based-rhythm-improves-gait-in-parkinsons-patients

Music May Improve Walking in People with Parkinson’s Disease ​
New research from the University of Florida suggests that music may be a powerful tool for improving walking in people with Parkinson’s disease. In a study published in JAMA Network Open, researchers compared how individuals with Parkinson’s and healthy older adults walked under four conditions: no sound, a regular metronome, a variable "fractal" metronome, and the Bee Gees' hit song Stayin' Alive.

The results showed that participants experienced better walking performance when listening to music. Compared to both types of metronomes, music was associated with faster walking speeds, longer strides, and greater arm swing. Researchers believe music may stimulate not only the brain's timing and rhythm centers but also emotional, reward, and dopamine-related pathways that influence movement.

While more research is needed to identify which types of music provide the greatest benefit, the findings suggest that something as simple as listening to the right song could become an important part of future Parkinson's therapies.
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​The PASWFL offers a Rhythm and Motion Class for members and their care partners click here to learn more

PUBLISHED RESEARCH

 To ensure we are providing accurate and timely information, we only list articles on studies that are published in peer-reviewed periodicals and provide information to help you live well with PD.  To find additional papers and research CLICK HERE