Long-Term Exercise Shows Potential to Rewire Brain Connections in Parkinson's Disease
Long-term exercise may help restore brain connections in Parkinson's disease by promoting neural plasticity, as recent studies reveal potential rewiring of affected neural circuits through sustained physical activity.
Recent research suggests that sustained exercise routines may play a significant role in restoring neural connections affected by Parkinson's disease (PD). Conducted by the University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center and the VA Northeast Ohio Healthcare System at the Cleveland FES Center, the study employed advanced brain signal recordings from deep brain stimulation (DBS) devices to explore the brain changes associated with long-term physical activity.
Participants with Parkinson's, including military veterans, partook in a structured cycling program over four weeks. Each participant completed 12 dynamic cycling sessions, during which adaptive motorized bikes assisted riders in maintaining a target speed of 80 rpm. The bikes dynamically adjusted resistance based on effort, providing a push-pull assistance that potentially benefits motor symptom management.
The innovative aspect of this research was the integration of deep brain stimulation devices with the exercise regimen, allowing real-time monitoring of brain signals. The study found that, although immediate brain signal changes were not evident, significant alterations were observed after 12 sessions. These changes occurred in regions linked to motor control, indicating that prolonged exercise might promote neural rewiring.
Researchers noted that current DBS technology limits monitoring to specific brain areas; however, the observed network-level brain changes imply broader circuit involvement. This suggests that exercise could influence multiple pathways, contributing to symptom improvement.
Led by neurologist Dr. Aasef Shaikh, the study highlights the potential of combining targeted physical exercise with advanced neuromodulation techniques to develop personalized treatments for Parkinson's disease. The findings open avenues for further research into how sustained activity might induce neuroplasticity and facilitate recovery.
Understanding how long-term activity influences brain circuitry offers hope for new therapeutic strategies. As the research progresses, it could lead to innovative interventions that harness brain plasticity to improve quality of life for those living with Parkinson's.
Source: MedicalXpress
Stay Updated with Mia's Feed
Get the latest health & wellness insights delivered straight to your inbox.
Related Articles
Many Medicare Beneficiaries Face Higher Out-of-Pocket Drug Costs Under New Legislation
New analysis reveals that while the Inflation Reduction Act aims to lower drug costs, most Medicare beneficiaries may face higher out-of-pocket expenses due to plan restructuring and increased deductibles. Learn how recent changes impact drug affordability for seniors.
Strategies to Shorten Waiting Periods for Hip and Knee Replacement Surgeries
New research highlights effective care models such as regional team-based approaches and centralized referral systems to reduce long wait times for hip and knee replacements in Canada, enhancing patient outcomes and healthcare equity.
Encouraging Outcomes of CAR T-cell Therapy for Leukemia and Lymphoma in Sweden
Swedish research reports improved survival rates and fewer side effects in leukemia and lymphoma patients receiving CAR T-cell therapy, marking a significant advancement in cancer immunotherapy.
Maintaining Good Cognitive Health Can Reduce Alzheimer's Risk, but Genetics Play a Key Role
Good cognitive health is linked to a lower risk of Alzheimer's disease, but genetic factors like the APOE e4 genotype can weaken this protective effect. A new study highlights the importance of both cognitive resilience and genetics in dementia risk assessment.