Research finds that Active-Assisted Cycling Improves Tremors and Bradykinesia in Parkinson's Disease

By David VanderVeer

Abstract

Ridgel AL, Peacock CA, Fickes EJ, Kim C-H. Active-assisted cycling improves tremor and bradykinesia in Parkinson's disease.

Objectives

To develop a rapid cadence cycling intervention (active-assisted cycling [AAC]) using a motorized bike and to examine physiological perimeters during these sessions in individuals with Parkinson's disease (PD). A secondary goal was to examine whether a single session of AAC at a high cadence would promote improvements in tremor and bradykinesia similar to the on medication state.

Design

Before-after pilot trial with cross-over.

Setting

University research laboratory.

Participants

Individuals with idiopathic PD (N=10, age 45–74y) in Hoehn and Yahr stages 1 to 3.

Intervention

Forty minutes of AAC.

Main Outcome Measures

Heart rate, pedaling power, and rating of perceived exertion were recorded before, during, and after a bout of AAC. Functional assessments included tremor score during resting, postural, and kinetic tremor.

Results

This AAC paradigm was well tolerated by individuals with PD without excessive fatigue, and most participants showed improvements in tremor and bradykinesia immediately after a single bout of cycling.

Conclusions

This paradigm could be used to examine changes in motor function in individuals with PD after bouts of high-intensity exercise.

 

 

Presented to the Society for Neuroscience, November 13-17, 2010,
San Diego, CA.
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.apmr.2012.05.015Get rights and content

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0003999312003607

Chapman University's distinguished Stroke Boot Camp is heralding a new age of patient recovery and rehabilitation through an exciting partnership with Nobol, an innovator in health technology. The PhysioPedal, Nobol's groundbreaking cordless motorized exerciser, is set to become a vital part of the camp's rehabilitation program.


The Stroke Boot Camp is a unique, intensive initiative by Chapman University designed to accelerate recovery in stroke survivors. This year, participants will be introduced to the PhysioPedal, an advanced tool that blends cordless convenience and motorized assistance to provide a comprehensive and adaptable workout.

Designed to aid daily physical activity, the PhysioPedal presents a world-first in cordless motorized exercisers. Its dual-function motor offers gentle resistance in manual mode for active exercise, and powered assistance in auto mode for passive arm and leg movements.

Recent research has emphasized the importance of regular, motor-assisted physical activity in enhancing neuroplasticity - a vital factor in post-stroke recovery. By stimulating upper and lower body movements, PhysioPedal promotes neural repair and reorganization, improving motor function and mobility.

But the benefits of the PhysioPedal don't stop there. According to a comprehensive study on the effects of Assisted Cycling Therapy (ACT), the therapy is associated with notable improvements in motor and clinical function in chronic stroke patients. The study showed that ACT, which PhysioPedal provides, led to significant pre-to-posttest changes in all outcome measures. Faster cycling cadences seemed to correlate with more considerable acute effects.

The PhysioPedal's integration into Chapman University's Stroke Boot Camp marks a significant step in the role of technology in health and rehabilitation. This move underscores the shared dedication of Chapman University and Nobol to empower stroke survivors on their road to recovery. With PhysioPedal, participants of the Stroke Boot Camp now have an additional, effective tool to regain mobility and independence and lead a more active, healthy lifestyle.

Chapman University's Stroke Boot Camp and Nobol's commitment to health and independence through innovation are changing the face of stroke recovery. With tools like the PhysioPedal, stroke survivors have more power to reclaim their lives and rewrite their narratives - one pedal at a time.