| Abstract: |
Background: Nonpharmacological rehabilitative therapies can be employees to address the multiple disabling symptoms associated with Parkinson’s disease. It has been suggested that high-quality specialist care can improve the quality of life for people with Parkinson’s disease.
Objectives: To systematically review the available evidence on the effectiveness of nonpharmacological rehabilitation interventions for people with Parkinson's disease.
Search Strategy: Studies were found by conducting a search of electronic databases (CINAHL, Cochrane Library, MEDLINE, PsychLIT) for the period 1980-2002. Keywords used were: Parkinson’s disease and intervention were rehabil* occupational therapy, physiotherapy, speech therapy, education, counseling, psych*. Studies were also found through reference lists.
Selection Criteria: Studies that met the following inclusion criteria were included in this review: (1) written in English, (2) involving nonpharmacological treatment interventions or reviews of such treatment for people with Parkinson’s Disease, and (3) studies were controlled trials.
Data Collection and Analysis: Two independent reviewers reviewed and assessed studies on a number of factors. Disagreements were settled by discussion.
Main results: Forty-four different studies were included in this review. The authors describe their findings and summarize the evidence for five intervention categories: physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech and language therapy, psychological and educational interventions, and multidisciplinary.
Conclusions: Publication bias may be in effect, but the available literature suggests that these interventions can improve patients’ quality of life. However, more rigorous research is required to draw specific conclusions. |
