Article

Partnered tango dance can improve balance and gait in individuals with
Parkinson's disease (PD). Partnered dance may allow these individuals to
challenge balance more than nonpartnered dance. Alternatively, partnered practice
could reduce balance gains because the participant may rely on the partner as a
balance aid when challenged. The authors compared the effects of partnered and
non-partnered dance on balance and mobility in 39 people
(11 women) with
mild-moderate PD (Hoehn and Yahr stages I-III). Participants were randomly
assigned to partnered or nonpartnered tango and attended 1-hour classes twice per
week, completing 20 lessons within 10 weeks. Balance and gait were evaluated in
the weeks immediately before, immediately after, and 1 month after the
intervention. Both groups significantly improved on the Berg Balance Scale,
comfortable and fast-as-possible walking velocity, and cadence. Improvements were
maintained at the 1-month follow-up. The nonpartnered class improved as much as
the partnered class; however, partnered participants expressed more enjoyment and
interest in continuing.

Langue : ANGLAIS