Combining Aerobic Exercise and Virtual Reality for Cognitive-motor Rehabilitation in PD

Combining Aerobic Exercise and Virtual Reality for Cognitive-motor Rehabilitation in Parkinson's Disease

This project will provide preliminary data on the feasibility and effects of exercise and VR on motor behavior and neuroplasticity in PD. Results from this work will provide insight into whether combination interventions utilizing AE and VR have parallel effects on cognition, gait, and neuroplasticity in PD.

In this pilot proof-of-concept study, the study team will recruit 10 individuals with Parkinson's disease who will perform aerobic exercise (AE) followed by virtual reality (VR). The study team will measure the effects of the intervention on dual task performance, clinical measures of gait, cognition, TMS measures and questionnaires pertaining to quality of life.

Inclusion Criteria:

1. Diagnosis of idiopathic PD (ages 18 - 85) in Hoehn and Yahr stages 1 - 3.
2. Subjects need to demonstrate a score of equal to or greater than 23 on the Mini Mental State Examination.

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Subjects with a history of other neurological diseases (i.e. stroke, multiple sclerosis).
2. Subjects with a history of severe cardiopulmonary disease, uncontrolled hypertension, orthostatic hypotension, uncontrolled diabetes, severe osteoporosis.
3. Subjects with a history of PD-specific surgical procedure such as deep brain stimulation etc.
4. Subjects with a history of head injury.
5. Subjects with a history of seizures or epilepsy,
6. Subjects who are currently pregnant
7. Subjects who use of medications that could alter corticomotor excitability or increase risk of seizure
8. Subjects with skull abnormalities, fractures, unexplained, recurring headaches.
9. Subjects who have cognitive or communication impairment that would affect participation.