Authors

  1. Villegas, Isabela Lucia Pelloso PT
  2. Israel, Vera Lucia PhD

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate the effect of the Ai-Chi method on the functional activities, quality of life, and posture in patients with Parkinson disease.

 

Methods: The sample was divided into 2 groups: intervention (Ai-Chi method exercises; n = 8) and control group (without exercises; n = 7). Subjects were assessed for functional activities (Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale), quality of life (39-item Parkinson's Disease Questionnaire), and posture (postural assessment software SAPO).

 

Results: The subjects in the intervention group showed improvement in functional activities (Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale score, 38.3 vs 23.8, P = .02) and posture (21.53 vs 21.86, P = .029).

 

Conclusion: The Ai-Chi method improves functional activities and head posture in patients with Parkinson disease.