Objective: The objective is to evaluate the effects on the balance and the walk of a program of 3 months of home-rehabilitation guided by digital support (BYM system) or paper.

Background: Studies have shown the value of commercial games (Nintendo Wii, Kinect) as home-rehabilitation tools for improving the balance and quality of life of Parkinson’s patients (PD). However, games specifically designed for rehabilitation needs and the capabilities of people with PD are needed for optimal effectiveness, adherence and security.

Method: 31 patients with PD or related disease were included and randomized. The control group (n = 15) performed home-rehabilitation by exercises on paper booklet. The experimental group (n = 16) performed home-rehabilitation with the BYM system consisting of a tablet application coupled to a motion sensor. Both groups were instructed to perform 30 minutes of exercise per day for 3 months. Clinical performance was assessed before and 3 months after the beginning of the program.

Results: Both groups were comparable in pretest. At 3 months, the performance of walking tests was improved in the tablet group: + 14.7% on the 6min test (pre = 498.3m, post = 571.7m) + 18% on the comfortable 10m (pre = 9.1s, post = 7.4s) + 12.6% on the TimedUp & Go (pre = 9.5s, post = 8.3s) -34% on the UPDRS III (pre = 9.1, post = 6, 0). The performances of the booklet group are unchanged or even worse.

Conclusion: Although we have not been able to show a significant difference between the two groups, the results of this pilot study are encouraging. A larger study would be needed to confirm these results.

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MDS Abstracts - https://www.mdsabstracts.org/abstract/effectiveness-on-the-balance-and-the-walking-of-a-program-of-home-rehabilitation-by-digital-support-versus-paper-book-on-parkinsons-patients-a-randomized-controlled-trial/