Telerehabilitation Dual-Task Training for Parkinson's: A Multidimensional Evaluation

Multidimensional Evaluation of the Effectiveness of Telerehabilitation-Based Dual-Task Training in Parkinson's Patients

In this clinical study, the aim is to assess the effectiveness of telerehabilitation-based dual-task training in improving balance and gait function among individuals diagnosed with Parkinson's Disease. Parkinson's Disease is characterized by motor symptoms such as tremors and slowness of movement, as well as cognitive impairments. While medical treatments help manage symptoms, exercise programs are vital for enhancing physical and cognitive functions.

Dual-task training involves combining motor and cognitive activities to enhance gait and balance control, and recent studies have shown its effectiveness in Parkinson's Disease rehabilitation. However, there's limited research on delivering dual-task training through telerehabilitation and determining the optimal content for maximum benefits.

This project involves 30 Parkinson's Disease patients who will be randomly assigned to three groups receiving different dual-task exercise programs via telerehabilitation. Each program focuses on combining balance and functional exercises with either cognitive or motor secondary activities. The exercises will be performed three times a week for four weeks under the guidance of a physiotherapist via Zoom.

Before and after the intervention, participants will be evaluated for feasibility, gait, balance, cognition, and activity levels. Researchers of this study hypothesize that telerehabilitation-based dual-task training will significantly improve balance and gait function in Parkinson's Disease patients, offering a convenient and effective treatment option to enhance their quality of life.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Diagnosed with idiopathic Parkinson's Disease
• Stage 1-3 on the Hoehn-Yahr scale
• A minimum score of 21 on the Montreal Cognitive Assessment Scale test
• Stable drug treatment within the last 1 month
• Patients are in the "On" period
• Ability to walk independently on level ground (3 and above according to Functional Ambulation Classification)

Exclusion Criteria:

• Serious hearing or vision problems
• Having other neurological, cardiovascular or orthopaedic disorders that may prevent walking
• Any other neurological disorder (e.g. dementia, cerebrovascular disease)
• less than 5 years of education
• To have vascular lower extremity pathologies
• Not having internet access via smartphone or computer