Conclusion ] Different methods , such as scales , tests , and equipment , are used for the evaluation of balance in patients with Parkinson 's disease .
[ Purpose ] The present literature review was conducted on the use of different measures for the evaluation of balance in patients with Parkinson 's disease .
Intensive Rehabilitation Increases BDNF Serum Levels in Parkinsonian Patients
Background . Exercise may decrease the risk of Parkinson ’s disease ( PD ) in humans and reduce PD symptoms in animal models . The beneficial effects have been linked to increased levels of neurotrophic factors . Objective . We examined whether intensive rehabilitation treatment reduces motor disability in patients in the early stages of PD and increases brain-derived neurotrophic factor ( BDNF ) serum levels . Methods . Thirty participants in the early stages of PD treated with rasagiline  were r and omly assigned to 3 hours of rehabilitation treatment that included aerobic exercise for 28 days ( Group 1 ) or to not therapy ( control ; Group 2 ) . BDNF serum levels were assessed at time T0 ( baseline , before treatment ) , T1 ( 10 days ) , T2 ( 20 days ) , and T3 ( 28 days ) . At T0 and T3 , we assessed the Unified Parkinson ’s Disease Rating Scale ( UPDRS ) III in both groups , as well as the UPDRS II and total , Berg Balance Scale , and 6-minute walking test only in Group 1 . Results . BDNF levels significantly increased at T1 in Group 1 , an increase that was maintained throughout the treatment period . At T3 compared to T0 , UPDRS III scores significantly improved in Group 1 along with scores for UPDRS II , total , Berg Balance Scale , and 6-minute walking test . Conclusions . Intensive rehabilitation treatment increases the BDNF levels and improves PD signs in patients in the early stages of the disease . These results are in line with studies on animal models of PD and healthy subjects
Conclusion ] Different methods , such as scales , tests , and equipment , are used for the evaluation of balance in patients with Parkinson 's disease .
[ Purpose ] The present literature review was conducted on the use of different measures for the evaluation of balance in patients with Parkinson 's disease .