Effect of Structured Pilates Training on Balance and Gait in Individuals with Parkinson’s Disease: A Clinical Study

Abstract

Background: Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by bradykinesia, rigidity, tremor, and postural instability. Among these, postural instability and gait impairment are the leading contributors to falls and loss of independence, and they respond poorly to dopaminergic therapy. Thus, identifying effective non-pharmacological interventions remains crucial.

Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the impact of a structured Pilates intervention on balance and gait coordination in individuals with Parkinson’s disease.

Methodology: A total of 30 participants diagnosed with Idiopathic Parkinson’s Disease (IPD), aged above 40 years, were recruited for this study. Participants underwent a 6-week supervised Pilates training program, comprising plinth-based, gym-ball, and stepping exercises conducted twice weekly for one hour per session. Functional outcomes were assessed pre- and post-intervention using the Berg Balance Scale (BBS) and the 6-Minute Walk Test (6MWT) to measure balance and gait endurance, respectively.

Results: Post-intervention analysis revealed a statistically significant improvement in both outcome measures. The mean BBS score increased from 42.8 ± 3.6 to 50.2 ± 2.9 (p < 0.001), while the mean 6MWT distance improved from 284.6 ± 35.4 m to 332.1 ± 37.9 m (p < 0.01). Participants also reported subjective improvements in trunk flexibility, reduced stiffness, and enhanced confidence in mobility. No adverse events were recorded, indicating that the intervention was both safe and feasible.

Conclusion: The findings suggest that a 6-week structured Pilates program is an effective and well-tolerated physiotherapy intervention for improving balance, gait coordination, and functional independence in individuals with Parkinson’s disease. By enhancing core stability and trunk mobility, Pilates may help mitigate fall risk and improve quality of life, supporting its integration as a complementary approach in PD rehabilitation.

Keywords: Parkinson’s disease, Pilates exercise, balance, gait coordination, physiotherapy, postural control, rehabilitation