Ice skating is safe and skillfully preserved amongst some people living with Parkinson's disease : possibility of neurotherapeutic inervention
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Date
2017
Authors
Mercier, Brittany Paige Theresa
University of Lethbridge. Faculty of Arts and Science
Journal Title
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Publisher
Lethbridge, Alta : University of Lethbridge, Dept. of Kinesiology & Physical Education
Abstract
Some people living with Parkinson’s disease (PLwPD) have been observed to have a
preserved ability to ice skate. We examined kinematic parameters of ice skating and the
immediately preceding and proceeding walking parameters amongst PLwPD to quantify skating
preservation and determine if there are gait improvements. During ice skating trials PLwPD were
able to maintain similar step length and velocity as older adult controls (OAC). Immediately
walking post skating velocity and double stance support time improved. Locomotion was
assessed during doorway crossing, an obstacle that increases motor impairments amongst some
PLwPD. Ice skating through a doorway had similar results for both step length and velocity for
PLwPD and OAC. Walking through a doorway after skating showed significant improvement to
step length. These results quantitatively verify that ice skating is a preserved skill amongst some
PLwPD in obstructed and unobstructed conditions, and that ice skating yields immediate
improvements to gait parameters
Description
Keywords
doorway crossing test , gait parameters , ice skating skill retention , neurotherapeutic intervention , paradoxical kinesia , Parkinson's disease