Adding Computer-based Cognitive Training to Conventional Rehabilitation Can Affect Postural Stability , Locomotion and Cognition in Parkinson's Disease Patients
BACKGROUND: Postural instability and gait abnormalities are cardinal features in Parkinson's disease (PD). It represents one of the most disabling symptoms in the advanced stages of the disease. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the immediate and long-term effects of adding computer-based cognitive training to physical therapy interventions on postural stability, locomotion, and cognitive performance in Parkinson's disease patients.
• Egyptian Parkinson's Disease patients of both sex , all patients fulfilled the U.K Parkinson's Disease Brain Bank Criteria for diagnosis of idiopathic PD.
• The patients' age ranged from 58 to 68 years.
• The duration of illness ranged from two to five years.
• The severity of the disease ranged from mild to moderate disability according to UPDRS motor scores (part III) and Modified Hoehn and Yahr staging (stage 2.5\&3) .
• Cognitive function ranged from 65 to 81 according to Parkinson's Disease-Cognitive Rating Scale (PD-CRS) that indicates mild cognitive impairment.
• The patients with mild balance and gait impairments
• Medically and psychologically stable patients and of adequate cardiac function to adhere to the protocol.