Amplitude training in occupational therapy for the treatment of Parkinson's disease: a feasibility study

Background/Aims Parkinson Wellness Recovery Moves is a functional, large-amplitude exercise programme aimed at reducing the symptoms of Parkinson's disease. To date, evidence supports the use of amplitude training to reduce the symptoms of Parkinson's disease; however, evidence is lacking in the feasibility of using Parkinson Wellness Recovery Moves as an adjunct to occupational therapy within inpatient rehabilitation. The aim of this study was to evaluate the feasibility of implementing the Parkinson Wellness Recovery Moves intervention into the treatment of patients with Parkinson's disease, within an inpatient rehabilitation hospital. Methods A total of five adults with Parkinson's disease participated in this 11-week quasi-experimental feasibility trial. The use of Parkinson Wellness Recovery Moves was standardised, requiring each participant to engage in at least two occupational therapy sessions that included Parkinson Wellness Recovery Moves. Outcomes collected included fidelity of intervention implementation, and participant-centred outcomes of quality of life satisfaction and function via the Parkinson's Disease Questionnaire-39 and Section GG respectively. Results Each participant had a positive change in Section GG scores and completed between eight and 13 occupational therapy sessions that included Parkinson Wellness Recovery Moves. Four out of five participants reported higher quality of life at the time of discharge. Conclusions The use of Parkinson Wellness Recovery Moves was found to be feasible to implement within an inpatient rehabilitation hospital, with increased functional performance and improved quality of life.