Music-based interventions for improving upper extremity functions in patients with Parkinsons Disease: A Randomized controlled trial

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by motor and non-motor symptoms that significantly impact an individual’s functional abilities and quality of life. Among the motor symptoms, upper limb dysfunctions, including impaired dexterity, coordination, and fine motor control, is a common and debilitating feature of PD. These deficits can have a profound impact on the performance of ADLs and self-care, leading to increased dependence and reduced independence.

Existing rehabilitation approaches, such as Occupational Therapy, have focused on addressing these upper limb impairments through various therapeutic techniques and exercises. However, alternative approaches, such as Neurological music therapy (NMT), have gained increasing attention in recent years.

NMT is a specialized form of music therapy that utilizes the therapeutic application of music to address sensory-motor, cognitive, and psycho-social needs associated with neurological disorders.

Previous studies have demonstrated the efficacy of PSE and RAS in improving gait and upper limb function in individuals with neurological conditions, such as stroke and traumatic brain injury.

However, their application and efficacy in improving upper limb function in individuals with PD have not been extensively explored.

This study aims to compare the efficacy of PSE, RAS, and usual OT in improving upper limb functions in patients with PD. By evaluating the feasibility and effectiveness of these interventions, this study will contribute to the growing body of knowledge on the use of music-based interventions in the rehabilitation of PD patients.

This will be a single-blinded, randomized controlled trial with three parallel arms: PSE group, RAS group, and usual OT group. The primary outcome measures will be the Box and Block Test, Purdue Peg board Test, and Action Research Arm Test. Secondary outcomes will include the Unified Parkinson’s Disease Rating Scale (UPDRS) for activities of daily living. Participants will be randomly allocated to receive either PSE with usual OT, RAS with usual OT, or usual OT alone for 3 weeks (1 week hospital-based and 2 weeks home-based). Assessments will be conducted at baseline and post-intervention.