Parkinson's disease and golf: The effects of golf on functional capacity, physical abilities, and quality of life

Abstract

Introduction: Parkinson's disease (PD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder affecting dopaminergic neurons in the brain, leading to motor and non-motor symptoms that impair physical functions and quality of life (QoL). Traditional treatments, such as pharmacological management and physical therapy, often face challenges in effectiveness and patient adherence, highlighting the need for alternative therapies. Golf, known for its low to moderate intensity and broad appeal across age groups, combines physical exercise with social interaction, making it a promising candidate for therapeutic intervention. Golf involves essential activities such as walking, swinging, and maintaining balance, which are crucial for sustaining functional abilities in PD patients. Additionally, the cognitive challenges and outdoor settings associated with golf may enhance mental health and overall well-being. Objective: This study aimed to examine the effects of golf practice on the functional and physical capacities and QoL of individuals with Parkinson's disease. Materials and Methods: Twelve PD volunteers, 10 males and 2 females, aged 63.5 ± 8.82 years, participated in a 7-week golf practice program conducted twice a week for 90 min per session. The subjects were evaluated using the Hoehn & Yahr Scale (H&Y), Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale (UPDRS), Parkinson's Disease Questionnaire (PDQ-39), and Senior Fitness Test (SFT). Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics, employing Student's ttest and repeated measures analysis of variance (ANOVA) with Bonferroni post hoc test. Results: Significant results were found in the SFT agility/dynamic balance (F = 4.58; p = 0.01) and PDQ-39 bodily discomfort (F = 38.84; p = 0.00). Conclusions: This study showed a positive impact of golf practice on agility, dynamic balance, and bodily discomfort, suggesting that golf can improve certain aspects of physical and functional capacity, as well as QoL, in individuals with Parkinson's disease.