Clinical Trial Identifier: NCT04122690
Status: Completed
Sponsor: VA Office of Research and Development
Phase: Not Applicable (Rehabilitation/Exercise Intervention)
This clinical trial investigated the effects of partnered dance aerobic exercise on motor function, balance, and quality of life in patients with Parkinson's disease. The study was funded by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Office of Research and Development, reflecting the VA's commitment to exploring non-pharmacological interventions for neurodegenerative conditions.
Background
Rationale
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Overview
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Clinical Trial Identifier: NCT04122690
Status: Completed
Sponsor: VA Office of Research and Development
Phase: Not Applicable (Rehabilitation/Exercise Intervention)
This clinical trial investigated the effects of partnered dance aerobic exercise on motor function, balance, and quality of life in patients with Parkinson's disease. The study was funded by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Office of Research and Development, reflecting the VA's commitment to exploring non-pharmacological interventions for neurodegenerative conditions.
Background
Rationale
Exercise and physical activity have consistently demonstrated neuroprotective effects in Parkinson's disease models and patients. Dance-based interventions, particularly when partnered (e.g., with a caregiver or therapist), offer unique advantages:
Motor learning through rhythmic movement: Dance engages multiple brain regions involved in motor planning, coordination, and balance
Social interaction: Partnered dance provides social engagement, which may mitigate depression and isolation common in PD
Motivational benefits: Music and partner interaction can increase adherence to exercise programs
Dual-task training: Dance inherently combines cognitive and motor tasks, which may enhance functional recovery
VA Research Context
The VA Healthcare System serves a substantial population of veterans with Parkinson's disease. The VA Office of Research and Development has prioritized non-pharmacological therapeutic approaches that can be implemented through the VA's extensive rehabilitation network.
Study Design
Intervention
The study evaluated a partnered dance aerobic exercise program consisting of:
Frequency: Multiple sessions per week over the study duration
Duration: Structured aerobic dance sessions with partner assistance
Motor function: Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale (UPDRS) Part III (Motor Examination)
Balance: Berg Balance Scale or similar validated measures
Functional mobility: Timed Up and Go (TUG) test, 6-Minute Walk Test
Quality of life: Parkinson's Disease Questionnaire-39 (PDQ-39)
Secondary endpoints may have included:
Depression and anxiety scales
Falls frequency
Adherence rates
Caregiver burden measures
Expected Results
Based on the literature on dance and Parkinson's disease, this trial likely demonstrated:
Motor improvement: Enhanced gait velocity, stride length, and reduced freezing of gait
Balance enhancement: Improved postural stability and reduced fall risk
Non-motor benefits: Reduced depression, improved sleep quality, enhanced cognitive function
Adherence advantages: Higher retention rates compared to traditional exercise programs
Scientific Context
Prior Evidence
Multiple studies support dance as a therapeutic intervention for Parkinson's disease:
| Study | Intervention | Key Findings | |-------|-------------|--------------| | Hackney et al. (2009) | Tango vs. Waltz/Fox | Tango group showed greater improvement in balance and functional mobility | | Shanahan et al. (2015) | Irish set dancing | Significant improvements in UPDRS scores and quality of life | | Volpe et al. (2013) | Traditional Italian dance | Improved motor function and reduced disability |
Mechanism of Action
Dance interventions may provide neuroprotective effects through:
Neuroplasticity promotion: Rhythmic auditory stimulation enhances motor cortex excitability
Dopaminergic activation: Movement to music may stimulate dopaminergic pathways