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Onset of Postural Instability in Parkinson’s Disease Depends on Age rather than Disease Duration
​Becker, D., Maric, A., Schreiner, S. J., Büchele, F., Baumann, C. R., & Waldvogel, D. (2022, December 2). Onset of postural instability in parkinson’s disease depends on age rather than disease duration. Parkinson’s Disease. https://www.hindawi.com/journals/pd/2022/6233835/

A recent study titled "Onset of Postural Instability in Parkinson’s Disease Depends on Age rather than Disease Duration," explores the relationship between age, disease duration, and the onset of postural instability in patients with Parkinson's disease (PD). The authors aimed to determine whether postural instability in PD is primarily associated with the age of the patient or with the duration of the disease.
 
Background:

• Postural instability and falls significantly impact the quality of life for individuals with advanced PD.
• Understanding when postural instability occurs is crucial for developing effective fall-prevention strategies in PD patients.

Methods:

• The study included patients diagnosed with sporadic PD between 1991 and 2017 who exhibited postural instability according to specific criteria.
• Strict inclusion criteria were applied, including regular follow-ups, data agreement, and the exclusion of comorbidities affecting standing.

 
Key Findings:

• The study included 106 patients, and the analysis revealed the following:
  • Patients who were younger than 50 years at the onset of PD took significantly longer to develop postural instability (median: 18.4 years) compared to patients with later onset (50–70 years, median: 14.2 years, and >70 years, median: 5.7 years).
  • There was no significant association between the severity of motor symptoms at the onset of postural instability.
  • The age of the patient primarily defined the onset of postural instability, not disease duration.
  • Patients who manifested PD at an older age developed postural instability sooner.

Discussion:

• The study's findings suggest that the age of the patient is a more critical factor in the onset of postural instability in PD than the duration of the disease.
• Older age at the time of PD onset was associated with earlier development of postural instability.
• The study also highlights that older age is a risk factor for more rapid progression of PD, aligning with earlier studies.
• Even in patients with tremor-dominant PD, age at onset still correlated with the onset of postural instability.
• Deep brain stimulation had a weak effect on postural instability, which was consistent with expectations.

Conclusion:

• This study provides valuable insights into the onset of postural instability during the progression of PD.
• The findings emphasize that age is a critical factor in the timing of postural instability, with older patients experiencing it sooner.
• These results may inform the development of targeted interventions for managing postural instability in PD patients, particularly among those with early disease onset.

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Did you know...exercise plays a crucial role in the management of Parkinson's disease (PD) and the PASWFL offers movement classes in-person and online? CLICK HERE FOR INFORMATION ON MOVEMENT CLASSES

Here's why exercise is essential for individuals with PD:

1. Improves Mobility and Balance: PD can lead to stiffness and difficulty in movement. Regular exercise, including stretching and balance exercises, can help improve mobility and reduce the risk of falls.
2. Enhances Muscle Strength: Muscle weakness is common in PD. Strength training exercises can help maintain and improve muscle strength, making daily activities easier.
3. Boosts Cardiovascular Health: Engaging in aerobic exercises such as walking, cycling, or swimming can improve cardiovascular fitness and overall endurance.
4. Enhances Mood and Reduces Depression: Exercise releases endorphins, which can help improve mood and reduce symptoms of depression, often associated with PD.
5. Supports Cognitive Function: Some studies suggest that exercise may have a positive impact on cognitive function, which can be affected in PD.
6. Promotes Social Interaction: Participating in group exercise classes or activities can provide social support and reduce feelings of isolation.
7. Medication Complement: While medication is a common treatment for PD, exercise can complement the effects of medication and help manage symptoms more effectively.
8. Neuroprotective Effects: Emerging research suggests that exercise may have neuroprotective effects, potentially slowing the progression of PD.

It's essential for individuals with PD to consult with their healthcare team or a physical therapist to develop an exercise plan tailored to their specific needs and abilities. Exercise should be done regularly and adjusted as needed to accommodate changes in symptoms and mobility.

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