Functional profile in Parkinson’s disease and predictors of gait speed

Abstract Purpose: To improve the social participation of people with Parkinson’s disease (PD), it is important to establish the functional profile and variables that influence gait, as gait is a predictive factor for independence. Based on the biopsychosocial approach of the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (BPS-ICF), this paper aimed to characterise the functional profile of people with PD and correlate measures related to gait speed. Methods: Cross-sectional research with 50 people with PD, systematically assessed with functional measures, analysed based on the ICF dimensions. From this framework, multiple linear regression analyses were used to determine the gait speed predicting variables. Results: The participants’ mean age was 63.16 ± 12.68 years; 58% (n  = 29) were men; 30 participants (60%) were classified into Hoehn & Yahr stages 1 and 2. Multiple linear regression analysis indicates that gait speed is significantly influenced by Mini BESTest, 6-Minute Walk Test, and handgrip strength. Conclusions: The functional profile based on the BPS-ICF model was outlined, and findings related to personal and environmental factors were described. The triad – body balance, aerobic conditioning, and muscle strength – was identified as predictive variables for gait speed in people with PD.