Comparative effects of Baduanjin versus brisk walking on postural control and multidimensional functions in early-to-mid-stage Parkinson's Disease: a randomized controlled trial

Introduction Baduanjin is a traditional mind-body exercise designed to modulate neural circuits and motor coordination. This study aimed to compare its rehabilitative efficacy against conventional brisk walking on postural control, motor, and non-motor functions in patients with early- to mid-stage Parkinson's disease (PD). Methods A 12-week randomized controlled trial was conducted with 32 PD patients (Hoehn and Yahr stages 1–2.5). Participants were randomly assigned to either a Baduanjin group or a Brisk Walking group and underwent 40-min training sessions five times weekly. Primary outcomes included the Movement Disorder Society-Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale Part III (MDS-UPDRS-III) and Berg balance scale (BBS). Secondary outcomes included Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA), Hamilton Anxiety Scale (HAMA), Hamilton Depression Scale (HAMD), Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), 39-Item Parkinson's Disease Questionnaire (PDQ-39) and objective gait parameters were quantified using wearable sensors during the Timed Up and Go (TUG) test and turning task. Results After 12 weeks, the Baduanjin group demonstrated significantly greater improvements than Brisk Walking in MDS-UPDRS-III ( P < 0.05) and axial subscale improved at 6 weeks ( P = 0.038) but not 12 weeks ( P = 0.060). No between-group differences occurred in limb subscale or BBS (all P > 0.05).No between-group differences occurred in limb subscale or BBS (all P>0.05). Baduanjin reduced anxiety more at 12 weeks ( P = 0.014) and improved cognition at 6 weeks ( P = 0.015). Depression improved within Baduanjin only ( P = 0.015). Both groups improved sleep and quality of life. Baduanjin showed superior gait parameters including TUG duration, turning time, trunk sagittal angular velocity during sit-to-stand/stand-to-sit; (all P < 0.05). Conclusion Baduanjin training appears to offer greater improvements in motor symptoms compared to conventional brisk walking in patients with early- to mid-stage Parkinson's disease. Its integration of mindful movement and breathing techniques may particularly address core motor deficits in PD, providing a safe, accessible, and culturally acceptable non-pharmacological rehabilitation option. Clinical Trial Registration ChiCTR2300069360 [ https://www.chictr.org.cn/ ].