Effect of Auditory Cueing on Gait in Parkinson's Disease
Author Information
Author(s): Sean Ledger, Rose Galvin, Deirdre Lynch, Emma K Stokes
Primary Institution: Trinity College Dublin
Hypothesis
Does the use of an individual auditory cueing device improve freezing and gait speed in people with Parkinson's disease?
Conclusion
The study found that individual auditory cueing devices can improve gait speed, stride length, and reduce freezing in people with Parkinson's disease.
Supporting Evidence
- Auditory cueing devices have shown immediate effects on gait improvements.
- Participants using the iPod-shuffle™ experienced better walking speed and stride length.
- The study aims to integrate auditory cueing into daily routines with minimal disruption.
Takeaway
Using music or sounds can help people with Parkinson's disease walk better and not freeze while walking.
Methodology
A randomised controlled trial with a crossover design, involving 47 participants who were assessed using various gait measures over a 3-week period.
Potential Biases
Potential bias in participant selection and randomisation process.
Limitations
The study may not account for all variables affecting gait in Parkinson's disease, and participants were excluded if they were undergoing other physiotherapy.
Participant Demographics
Participants were individuals diagnosed with Parkinson's disease, recruited from the Parkinson's Association of Ireland.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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