Balance Ability and Occupational Performance in Patients with Parkinson's Disease and On-Medication-State Freezing of Gait.

Abstract Purpose The aim of this study was to examine balance ability and occupational performance in patients with Parkinson’s disease (PD) and on-medication-state freezing of gait (FOG). Design A cohort study with three groups was conducted. Methods Seven patients with PD and on-medication-state FOG with optimized pharmacological therapy; seven patients with PD matched by age, gender, length of time since diagnosis, and Hoehn and Yahr stage; and seven controls were included. Outcomes included balance and occupational performance. Nonparametric analyses were used. Findings Significant differences were found between the two subgroups of patients with PD in the Timed Up & Go Test when adding a cognitive task, dual-task interference, and self-confidence in balance. Conclusions Patients with PD and on-medication-state FOG had lower scores on dual-task interference and self-confidence than matched PD patients. Clinical Relevance The assessment and rehabilitation approach for patients with PD and on-medication-state FOG should include balance confidence and dual-task interference.