Published Paper Details:

Background: Parkinson's disease (PD) is a progressive neurological condition associated with impaired balance, altered gait and decreased functional mobility. These problems increase the likelihood of falls and can negatively affect quality of life. Exercise-based physiotherapy programs emphasizing balance and strengthening are commonly used in rehabilitation practice; however, comparative evidence between different structured balance rehabilitation protocols remains limited. Aim: To compare the effectiveness of two structured balance rehabilitation protocols on dynamic balance and functional mobility in individuals with Parkinson's disease. Methods: Sixty individuals diagnosed with Parkinson's disease (Hoehn and Yahr stage I-II) aged 50 to 70 years participated in the study. Participants were randomly allocated into two groups (n=30 each). Group A received an Otago-based balance and strengthening program, while Group B received task-oriented functional balance training with progressive resistance exercises. Both groups underwent intervention for 40 minutes per session, three sessions per week for six weeks. Outcome measures included the Timed Up and Go Test (TUG) and Dynamic Gait Index (DGI). Statistical analysis was performed using paired and unpaired t-tests with significance set at p < 0.05. Results: Both intervention groups showed statistically significant improvements in TUG and DGI scores after six weeks of training. However, the Otago-based balance training group demonstrated greater improvements compared to the functional balance training group. Conclusion: Structured balance rehabilitation programs are effective in improving functional mobility and gait in individuals with Parkinson's disease. The Otago-based balance training program demonstrated superior outcomes and may be considered a preferred rehabilitation strategy.