Leveck et al (2023) Applicability of the Minimal Clinically Important Difference in the activitiesof daily living, motor sections, and quality of life in individuals with Parkinson’s disease afte

This pilot study evaluated the applicability of the Minimal Clinically Important Difference (MCID) in assessing the effects of aquatic physical therapy (APT) on activities of daily living (ADLs), motor functions, and quality of life (QoL) in individuals with Parkinson’s disease (PD). The study included 11 participants aged 70.73 ± 10.67 years, classified in Hoehn & Yahr stages 1 to 4. APT sessions were conducted twice weekly for 12 weeks, focusing on gait training, strength exercises, and balance improvement.

Although no statistically significant changes were observed in the Unified Parkinson’s Disease Rating Scale (UPDRS) scores for ADLs or motor functions (p > 0.05), the changes approached the MCID thresholds, indicating clinically relevant improvements. Specifically, five participants achieved MCID in ADLs, and two in motor functions. QoL, measured using the Parkinson’s Disease Questionnaire-39 (PDQ-39), showed a mean improvement of 17.42%, with five participants surpassing the MCID.

The study highlights APT’s potential to stabilize or slightly improve motor and functional conditions in individuals with progressive PD, leveraging water’s buoyancy and resistance to facilitate safer and more effective movement. While results suggest positive trends, the authors emphasize the need for larger sample sizes and controlled trials to validate these findings.