Objective: To evaluate the effectiveness of physiotherapy interventions in improving motor function, quality of life, and stigma reduction for individuals with Parkinson’s disease in Uganda. The study also aimed to assess the role of patient-caregiver support groups in fostering treatment adherence and psychosocial well-being.
Background: In Uganda, cultural misconceptions linking Parkinson’s disease and movement disorders to sexual immorality result in stigma, delayed diagnosis, maltreatment and isolation. Physiotherapy plays a dual role in improving motor function and quality of life while serving as a platform for public education on the neurological origins of these conditions.
Method: A cohort study of 25 patients and their caregivers was conducted with ethical approval and informed consent. Participants received structured physiotherapy (three sessions per week for three months) and a daily home exercise program. Data on motor function, mobility, quality of life, and stigma-related stress were collected at baseline and post-intervention. The Unified Parkinson’s Disease Rating Scale (UPDRS), Timed Up and Go (TUG) test, Parkinson’s Disease Questionnaire (PDQ-39), and Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) were used for assessment. Qualitative data on adherence and well-being were analyzed thematically.
Results: The patient-caregiver support group had a 75% retention rate (p < 0.5). Stigma-related stress (PSS score decreased from 65% to 30%) (p < 0.5). Motor function improved by 19% (UPDRS score from 40 to 32.4) (p < 0.5). Functional mobility improved by 25% (TUG test from 20 to 15 seconds) (p < 0.5). Quality of life improved by 30% (PDQ-39 score from 60 to 42) (p < 0.5).
Conclusion: These findings demonstrate physiotherapy’s effectiveness in improving clinical and psychosocial outcomes. Emphasizing the neurological basis of Parkinson’s, along with patient-caregiver support groups, fosters acceptance and treatment adherence therefore reshaping cultural narratives and improving healthcare access for individuals with movement disorders in Uganda. Expanding interventions to include public education, school programs, and community engagement could further reduce stigma and promote early diagnosis with appropriate funding.
References: 1. Tash Fothergill, 24th Jan,2025 Witchcraft and demons: perceptions of Parkinson’s disease in Africa
2. Mie Rizig, Omotola Thomas. A health literacy campaign for Parkinson’s disease in Africa: a novel campaign to breakdown language barriers.
3. Baatile, Jost, Langein, Maloney, Weaver. Effects of exercise on perceived quality of life of individuals with Parkinson’s disease. Journal of Rehabilitation Research and Development. 2000: 37; 529-534.
4. Hagell P, Whalley D, McKenna SP, Lindvall O. Health status measurement in Parkinson’s disease: validity of the PDQ-39 and Nottingham Health Profile.
To cite this abstract in AMA style:
S. Nakisanze, J. Mutunzi, E. Jjuuko. The Role of Physiotherapy in Demystifying Parkinson’s Disease and Movement Disorders in Uganda. [abstract]. Mov Disord. 2025; 40 (suppl 1). https://www.mdsabstracts.org/abstract/the-role-of-physiotherapy-in-demystifying-parkinsons-disease-and-movement-disorders-in-uganda/. Accessed October 5, 2025.« Back to 2025 International Congress
MDS Abstracts - https://www.mdsabstracts.org/abstract/the-role-of-physiotherapy-in-demystifying-parkinsons-disease-and-movement-disorders-in-uganda/