Effect of Pilates exercises on core muscle thickness, physical performance, and fatigue in patients with Parkinson’s disease: A randomized controlled trial

Authors : Derya Çağlar, Arzu Güçlü Gündüz, Ahmet Tüfekçi, Mehmet Beyazal, Mustafaumut Caglar, Sefa Eldemir

Pages : 71-80

Doi:10.15437/jetr.1376656

View : 81 | Download : 75

Publication Date : 2024-08-09

Article Type : Research Paper

Abstract :Purpose: It was aimed to examine the effects of Pilates exercises on core muscle thickness, physical performance, fatigue, activities of daily living (ADL), and quality of life (QoL) in patients with Parkinson’s disease (PwPD). Methods: This study was conducted with 34 patients randomly assigned to the Pilates or Control group (n=17 each). The Pilates group received Pilates training 3 days a week for 8 weeks, while the control group received breathing exercises, active range of motion exercises, and relaxation exercises as a home program. Core muscle thickness was evaluated by ultrasonography and core stability was evaluated by core strength and endurance tests. Lower extremity functional strength was evaluated with the 5 Times Sit-Up Test, balance with the Berg Balance Scale, functional mobility with the Timed Up and Go Test, and functional exercise capacity with the 6-Minute Walk Test. Fatigue was evaluated with the Parkinson\'s Fatigue Scale-16,. Results: Transversus abdominus and multifidus muscle thicknesses (except for right side multifidus muscle), physical performance parameters, fatigue, ADL, and QoL improved in the Pilates group (p<0.05). In the control group, improvement was observed only in ADL (p<0.05). Conclusion: Results show core muscle thickness as well as improved physical performance, fatigue, ADL, and QoL after Pilates in PwPD. As a result, core-based training, Pilates, may be used to train core muscles and improve functional results, fatigue, and daily activities.
Keywords : Parkinson hastalığı, Pilates egzersizleri, Abdominal kaslar, Fiziksel performans, Core stabilite