Authors: Rodica Traistaru1, Diana Kamal2, Constantin Kamal1, Otilia Rogoveanu1, Ana Maria Bumbea1
Affiliation: 1 Universityof Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, Romania
2 ElgaClinic, Craiova, Romania
Abstract
Background.Parkinsonism is an umbrella term which covers a group of neurological disorders that cause movement problems (slow movement, abnormal gait and balance problems, rigidity, tremor); only 80-85% of all cases are due to Parkinson’s disease (PD); other 15-20% are defined as atypical parkinsonism.
Aims.We evaluated in our study the efficacy of a complex rehabilitation program, based on 6 weeks of aerobic training, for reducing symptoms and improving the quality of life in elderly patients with vascular parkinsonism.
Methods.The study was a randomized controlled trial comprising two groups of patients (E-study group and C-control group), homogeneous in terms of biographical, clinical and functional features. All patients underwent a full clinical, imaging and functional assessment.
Results.All parameters had a significant modification (Up and Go test, Berg scale, 2 MWD and NEADL scale) in patients that performed the rehabilitation program.
Conclusions.The rehabilitation program mainly aimed at maximizing functional ability and quality of life in patients with vascular parkinsonism. Our study is a beginning for the development of an evidence-based practice in the rehabilitation of older patients with parkinsonism.
Keywords:vascular parkinsonism, rehabilitation program.
English 
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