Gait Economy and Walking Distance in Parkinson's Disease
Author Information
Author(s): Leslie I. Katzel, Ivey Frederick M., Sorkin John D., Macko Richard F., Smith Barbara, Shulman Lisa M.
Primary Institution: University of Maryland School of Medicine
Hypothesis
This study investigated the economy of gait during submaximal treadmill walking in subjects with mild to moderate Parkinson's Disease and its relationship with walking distance.
Conclusion
The study found that individuals with Parkinson's Disease have significantly impaired economy of gait, which increases their energy demands during walking.
Supporting Evidence
- 30% of subjects had submaximal VO2 levels exceeding 70% of their VO2 peak, indicating severe reduction in economy of gait.
- There was an inverse relationship between economy of gait and the distance covered during the 6-minute walk.
- Subjects had mean submaximal VO2 values that were 51% higher than expected for their walking speed.
Takeaway
People with Parkinson's Disease use a lot more energy to walk than healthy people, making it harder for them to walk long distances.
Methodology
The study involved measuring oxygen consumption during treadmill walking in subjects with mild to moderate Parkinson's Disease and assessing their walking distance in a six-minute walk test.
Potential Biases
Potential bias may arise from the use of handrail support, which could reduce oxygen consumption measurements.
Limitations
The study may underestimate the severity of gait impairment due to the short duration of oxygen consumption measurement and the use of handrail support during treadmill testing.
Participant Demographics
The sample included 57 men and 22 women, with a mean age of 65.1 years and a range of mild to moderate Parkinson's Disease severity.
Statistical Information
P-Value
<0.01
Statistical Significance
p<0.01
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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