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Long‐term effects of coordinative training in degenerative cerebellar disease
Author(s) -
Ilg Winfried,
Brötz Doris,
Burkard Susanne,
Giese Martin A.,
Schöls Ludger,
Synofzik Matthis
Publication year - 2010
Publication title -
movement disorders
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 3.352
H-Index - 198
eISSN - 1531-8257
pISSN - 0885-3185
DOI - 10.1002/mds.23222
Subject(s) - physical medicine and rehabilitation , ataxia , physical therapy , activities of daily living , disease , medicine , degenerative disease , cerebellar ataxia , psychology , neuroscience
Few clinical studies have evaluated physiotherapeutic interventions for patients with degenerative cerebellar disease. In particular, evidence for long‐term effects and transfer to activities of daily life is rare. We have recently shown that coordinative training leads to short‐term improvements in motor performance. To evaluate long‐term benefits and translation to real world function, we here assessed motor performance and achievements in activities of daily life 1 year after a 4 week intensive coordinative training, which was followed by a home training program. Effects were assessed by clinical rating scales, a goal attainment score and quantitative movement analysis. Despite gradual decline of motor performance and gradual increase of ataxia symptoms due to progression of disease after 1 year, improvements in motor performance and achievements in activities of daily life persisted. Thus, also in patients with degenerative cerebellar disease, continuous coordinative training leads to long‐term improvements, which translate to real world function. © 2010 Movement Disorder Society