Rising from the Floor: A Movement Analysis of Older Adults and Individuals With Parkinson’s Disease

Parkinson’s Disease (PD) is a common chronic neurological disorder leading to increased fall risk and movement difficulty. Individuals with PD experience rigidity and bradykinesia limiting movement speed and quality that may compromise motor strategies with normal function. The goal of this research is to compare the Timed Supine to Stand Test (TSS) speed, lower extremity range of motion (ROM) and strategy type (2-3 points of contact versus 4 points of contact) between a group of older adults with PD and those without PD (WPD). Data were collected using the Noraxon® Ultium Motion Analysis System via inertial measurement units (IMU), ground reaction force (GRF) with insole pressure sensors, and video. Each participant performed one repetition of the TSS. Chi Square analysis revealed individuals with PD preferred the 4-point contact method. MANOVA revealed no significant difference between lower extremity range of motion or GRF between groups but did demonstrate a significant difference in time to stand. Controlling for age via MANCOVA revealed no difference in range of motion, GRF, or time to perform the TSS. Speed with the TSS appeared to be a function of age rather than PD. Individuals with PD prefer to use 4 points of contact while transferring from the ground. Healthcare providers should tailor transfer recommendations for individuals with PD and older adults to include four points of contact.