Changes in gait speed, gastrocnemius strength, and center of pressure for individuals living with Parkinson's disease

Background: Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a progressive disease that impacts the ability to walk in individuals with PD. Changes in gait abilities can lead to falls, changes in independence, and decreased quality of life. The purpose of this study was to create two regression analyses to investigate the relationship of six factors with gait velocity and then gait endurance (the respective gait factor was included in the regression analysis). A secondary and tertiary purpose was to examine the relationship of changes in center of pressure data, gastrocnemius strength, and gait speed with those living with PD and their healthy peers. Participants: This study included a sample of convenience of 65 individuals with PD and 25 community dwelling adults. Methods: Data collected included 6 Minute Walk Test (6MWT) (gait endurance), Montreal Cognitive Assessment (cognition), Calf Raise Test (gastrocnemius strength), Four Square Step Test (balance), Fatigue Severity Scale (fatigue), Movement Disorders Society – United Parkinson’s Disease Rating Scale Motor Subscale (disease severity), Age, and 10 Meter Walk (10MWT) (gait speed) in addition to Zeno Mat single support center of pressure distance (SS COP). Results and D Discussion: For individuals with PD there was a significant prediction model for both gait speed and gait endurance. The 6MWT was the only significant predictor variable for the 10MWT, (F=21.01, p<.001, adjusted r2=.70). Both the 10MWT and heel raises were predictors for the 6MWT, (F=22.14, p<.001, adjusted r2=.71). Using Analysis of Variance, a statistically significant difference (p<.05) was found in 10MWT speed and SS COP distance between those with moderate PD impairment and those without PD as well as low PD impairment. Using Analysis of Variance, s statistically significant difference (p<.05) was found in average heel raises between those without PD, low PD impairment, and moderate PD impairment. Conclusions: This study highlights the impact of gastrocnemius strength in individuals living with PD. This may help to shift focus onto the gastrocnemius clinically to allow a more comprehensive assessment and treatment. Finally, the Zeno Mat may provide a clinical tool to assess changes in SS COP % in individuals with PD.

Name thesis:degree_name

Doctor of Philosophy

Level thesis:degree_level

Doctoral

Discipline thesis:degree_discipline

Physical Therapy

Grantor

Texas Woman's University

Year dc:date.issued

2018

Author dc:creator

• Shearin, Staci

Advisor dc:contributor.advisor

• Medley, Ann

Committee members dc:contributor.committeemember

• Swank, Chad
• Trudelle-Jackson, Elaine
• Querry, Ross

• Parkinson's disease
• gait

Language dc:language.iso

en

Handle dc:identifier.uri

http://hdl.handle.net/11274/10150

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:twu-ir.tdl.org:11274/10150