The Parkinson disease represents the second neurodegenerative disorder after the Alzheimer’s disease in France. 150,000 people are affected by this pathology that we do not yet know how to cure. The sick people thus develop tremors, stiffness and see their movements slow down. Gait disturbances are also common in the course of Parkinson’s disease.
However, a new study suggests that walking 45 minutes every other day with Parkinson’s disease can slow the progression of the disease. Even a short distance, walking for 45 minutes improves motor functions, reduces fatigue, and improves mood.
A simple and accessible way to improve symptoms
Study author Dr Ergun Uc, University of Iowa, USA, said: “Our study results suggest that walking may provide a safe and easily accessible way to improve of Parkinson’s disease symptoms and quality of life in people with mild to moderate disease “.
For this study, the doctor included 60 people who took part in 45-minute walking sessions, of moderate intensity (a heart monitor made it possible to check the intensity), three times a week and for 6 months. The walking speed was about 4.5 km / hour.
Walking also improves attention spans
At the same time, study participants took tests that measured their motor functions, memory, reasoning skills, and mood and fatigue.
The study found that these regular walks improved motor functions by 15%, attention by 14% and reduced fatigue by 11%.
Dr Uc added: “People with mild to moderate Parkinson’s do not have dementia and are able to walk independently without a cane or walker. They can therefore safely follow exercise advice. recommended for healthy adults, which includes 150 minutes per week of moderate-intensity aerobic activity.