Objective: To investigate the relationship between hand function, hand reaction time and balance in patients with idiopathic Parkinson’s disease (PD).

Background: Symptoms of PD such as bradykinesia, hypokinesia, rigidity and tremor increase impairment in hand dexterity and affect hand reaction time negatively. At the same time, balance problems are frequently seen in the patients with PD. Distal mobility is provided by proximal stability in the body. Therefore, there may be an association between balance and hand functions and hand reaction time.

Method: Thirty-six people who were diagnosed with idiopathic PD were included in the study. The hand dexterity and reaction time were assessed by Nine-Hole Peg Test (NHPT) and Simple Hand Reaction Test (SHRT). Balance performance was assesed by clinical tests including the Berg Balance Scale (BBS) and Timed Up and Go Test (TUG). In addition, Limit of Stability (LoS) Test and modified Clinical Test of Sensory Interaction on Balance (mCTSIB) Test was performed using  a computerized balance measuring instrument were assessed.

Results: Significant correlations were found between the NHPT (right hand/left hand) and the BBS (r=-0.383/-0.494, p=0.019/0.002). The SHRT was significantly correlated with the TUG (r=0.457, p=0.004), LoS-Endpoint Excursion (r=-0.492, p=0.002), LoS-Maximum Excursion (r=-0.478, p=0.003) and LoS-Directional Control (r=-0.336, p=0.042).

Conclusion: It was determined that hand dexterity and reaction time were associated with balance performance in patients with idiopathic PD. The results may provide a basis for the future studies investigating the possible positive effects of balance training on hand function in patients with PD.

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MDS Abstracts - https://www.mdsabstracts.org/abstract/association-between-hand-functions-hand-reaction-time-and-balance-in-patients-with-idiopathic-parkinsons-disease/