Effects of a treadmill and oculomotor dual-task intervention vs. -nordic walking on balance in Parkinson’s disease patients − a pilot study

Background

Oculomotor function has been established as a critical factor influencing balance, and both domains are frequently impaired in Parkinson’s disease (PD). Despite increasing recognition of younger PD cases, targeted therapeutic research remains limited.

Purpose

This pilot study evaluated the effects of a treadmill-based oculomotor dual-task intervention in individuals with PD, comparing its impact on balance and non-motor outcomes with that of Nordic walking (NW).

Method

Using a sequential within-subjects design, this study contrasts a four-week NW intervention with a subsequent four-week oculomotor intervention. Baseline, interim, and post-intervention assessments were conducted, with data collected using both qualitative and quantitative measures.

Results

The treadmill and oculomotor intervention led to greater improvements in unilateral and static balance parameters compared to NW, particularly under horizontal eye-movement conditions. While motor scores improved comparably in both interventions, non-motor domains such as emotional well-being and stigma improved only after the oculomotor protocol.

Conclusion

Treadmill-based oculomotor dual-task training appears to be a viable and time-efficient alternative to NW for improving specific aspects of balance and non-motor function in PD. Given its indoor feasibility and short duration, this approach may enhance accessibility in clinical and home-based rehabilitation settings.