Non-Pharmacological Treatment Challenges in Early Parkinson's Disease for Axial and Cognitive Symptoms: A Mini Review
Frontiers in Neurology
Sharpe, G., Macerollo, A., et al. (2020).
Frontiers in Neurology, 11, 576569.
This systematic review investigates the effects of non-pharmacological treatments on axial and cognitive symptoms for individuals with early Parkinson's disease (PD).
National Brain Appeal (UK); Small Acorns Fund (UK); National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery (UK); UCLH NHS Trust (UK); University College London Hospitals Charity (UK); Australian Catholic University
2005-2020
Randomized-controlled trials (RCTs)
11
<div>One RCT investigated the effects of speech intervention for early PD patients (H&Y 2). High-intensity voice treatment (i.e., LSVT) led to significant improvements in intelligibility as compared to high-intensity articulation treatment or no treatment conditions.</div>
<div>Two RCTs looked at swallowing intervention in individuals with early PD (H&Y 2):</div>
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<ul>
<li>One RCT investigated the use of electrical stimulation therapy (i.e., VitalStim) compared to compensatory swallowing treatments. Both treatments yielded improved swallowing outcomes with no significant difference between groups. </li>
<li>Another RCT investigated the use of video-assisted swallowing therapy (VAST) compared to compensatory swallowing therapies. Both groups demonstrated improved swallowing outcomes, however, improved pharyngeal residue was reported in those that received VAST. </li>
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