Viktoria Gkoraki  
3 Occupational Therapy Department, School of Health & Care Sciences, University of West Attica (UNIWA), Egaloe, 12243 Athens, Greece; [EMAIL_ADDRESS] (C.A.K.) [PERSON]  
3 Occupational Therapy Department, School of Health & Care Sciences, University of West Attica (UNIWA), Egaloe, 12243 Athens, Greece; [EMAIL_ADDRESS] (C.A.K.) [PERSON]  
3 Occupational Therapy Department, School of Health & Care Sciences, University of West Attica (UNIWA), Egaloe, 12243 Athens, Greece; [EMAIL_ADDRESS] (C.A.K.) [PERSON]  
3 Occupational Therapy Department, School of Health & Care Sciences, University of West Attica (UNIWA), Egaloe, 1222 In Europe, the number of Parkinson's disease patients is estimated to exceed 1.2 million, and this figure is projected to double by 2030. Globally, the prevalence of the disease is increasing over time and is also expected to double in the next 20 years, reaching 2% in people over 60 years of age and 6% in people over 80 years old [5]. The burden of PD continues to escalate with an aging global population, making the effective management of this condition a critical area of research and clinical intervention [6]. In this context, physiotherapy has become an integral component of managing PD, aiming to improve physical function, reduce disability, and enhance quality of life. However, it is concerning that a significant portion of physiotherapists, particularly in Europe, report a lack of specialized training in PD management, which could negatively impact the quality of care provided [1; 7]. More specifically, a study in the Netherlands by [PERSON] et al. [8] reported that 6 out of 10 patients were treated by physiotherapists who had no specialist training in the management of PD. Physiotherapy plays a vital role in the multidisciplinary approach to PD, aiming to alleviate motor symptoms and improve functional capacity [8]. The basic components of physiotherapy management for patients with Parkinson's disease include a thorough assessment, personalized intervention programs, and the application of evidence-based tools and techniques tailored to each patient's unique needs. According to [PERSON] et al. [9], recommended tools that are easy to use and have demonstrated reliability and validity include the Berg Balance Scale [10], the Timed Up and Go (TUG) test [11], the Ten-Meter Walk test [12], and the Five Times Sit-to-Stand test [13]. Each of these assessments evaluates different aspects: balance, gait, functional mobility, and physical capacity, respectively. [PERSON] et al. [9] also stated that carefully selected and adequately utilized measurement tools assist physiotherapists in making a structured and objective identification of impairments, activity limitations, and participation restrictions that PD patients frequently face. These tools help set goals, develop appropriate treatment plans, and facilitate communication with other health professionals. The primary objectives of physiotherapy are to optimize mobility, prevent falls, reduce rigidity, and improve gait and posture to promote functional independence [8; 14]. Several evidence-based physiotherapy protocols have been established, including motor training, strengthening exercises, balance training, and aerobic exercises that have been shown to improve overall functioning and daily living skills [2]. A holistic approach, which often includes manual therapy, posture correction, and progressive resistance exercises, is essential for managing rigidity and improving alignment [15]. This comprehensive method enhances patients' ability to move efficiently and addresses the complex, multifaceted symptoms of Parkinson's disease (PD) [14; 16]. In recent years, international research interest has focused on using new technologies, including virtual reality platforms (VR), to manage Parkinson's disease. Applications and gaming technologies like the Nintendo Wii or Xbox Kinect can additionally help improve patients' motor and cognitive symptoms [17; 18; 19].