Higher-level ambulation disorders in Parkinson’s disease

The article discusses ambulation disorders in Parkinson’s disease, which result from both disease progression and aging. It focuses on multisensory impairments and the critical link between cognitive and motor disorders, particularly the motor-cognitive deficit. Diagnosing ambulation disorders presents several challenges because it’s essential to identify the specific cause in each case. Key factors include the ineffectiveness of standard antiparkinsonian therapy, varying degrees of cognitive impairments (including visual and spatial difficulties), and the presence of comorbidities. The potential role of changes in gait patterns and motor activity as a marker for the progression of cognitive deficits is discussed. The use of modern techniques in complex diagnostics and therapy for assessing and treating higher-level ambulation disorders in Parkinson’s disease is discussed. The author’s data underscore the importance of combining both drug and non-drug methods in the treatment of advanced ambulation disorders in Parkinson’s disease. This includes the use of transcranial magnetic stimulation, interactive ergometric exercises, and anticholinesterase agents.