Abstract
The objective of this study was to assess the effects of dog walking on gait and mobility in people with Parkinson disease (PD). This single-group, single-session, observational pilot study included nineteen participants with PD in Hoehn and Yahr stages II (n = 9) and III (n = 10). Primary measures were a gait analysis and the Timed Up and Go (TUG). Three trials of two conditions (walking with and without a dog) were completed. Walking with a dog resulted in slower gait velocity (mean difference = 0.11 m/s, p = 0.003, d = 0.77), shorter step length (left: mean difference = 7.11 cm, p = 0.000; right: mean difference = 3.05, p = 0.01), and stride length (left: mean difference = 7.52, p = 0.003; right: mean difference = 8.74, p = 0.001). The base of support was more narrowed (Z = −2.13, p = 0.03), with increased double limb stance time (left: Z = −2.89, p = 0.004; right: Z = −2.59, p = 0.01). Walking with a dog caused slower TUG times (mean difference = −1.67, p = 0.000) and increased number of steps (Z = −3.73, p = 0.000). No significant change shown in step time (left: mean difference = −0.001, p = 0.81; right: mean difference = 0.002, p = 0.77) or cadence (Z = −1.67, p = 0.10). In conclusion, there was an overall decline of gait parameters in people with PD when walking with a dog.
Highlights
Parkinson disease (PD) is a progressive, neurodegenerative disorder characterized by the cardinal signs of bradykinesia, tremors, rigidity, and postural instability
It has been established that gait abnormalities in people with PD can worsen under dual-task conditions [5]
Nineteen people with PD participated in this study, with one participant not attending their scheduled research time (Table 1)
Summary
Parkinson disease (PD) is a progressive, neurodegenerative disorder characterized by the cardinal signs of bradykinesia, tremors, rigidity, and postural instability. Gait disorders are typical consequences of PD, which include slowed speed, shortened stride length, and increased time in double limb support [1]. People with PD exhibit increased gait asymmetry and loss of ability to maintain a steady gait rhythm. This can result in higher stride-to-stride variability [2]. These gait disturbances are the most significant motor complaint in advanced PD and can lead to an increased fall risk [3]. It has been shown that poor gait is associated with falls in the PD population [4]. It has been established that gait abnormalities in people with PD can worsen under dual-task conditions [5]
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