Objective: To investigate the feasibility and effects of table tennis training on balance control and physical function in individuals with Parkinson’s disease (PD).

Background: Postural instability has a negative impact on physical activity and quality of life and responds poorly to PD medication. Different exercise and balance training programs have been found to be significantly effective. Training that is enjoyable, motivating and easily accessible have higher adherence. Table tennis is a popular sport worldwide with high demands on balance. No scientific publication to date has addressed the effects of table tennis in individuals with PD.

Method: Individuals, with mild to moderate idiopathic PD, were recruited to a 10 weeks group training program consisting of table tennis training 2 times per week (120 minutes/session). Primary outcome was the Mini Balance Evaluation Systems Test (Mini-BESTest). Secondary outcomes were: UPDRS, PDQ-8, EQ5D-5L, MADRS, 10 Meter Walk Test, Swedish version Walk-12, ABC Scale and physical activity measured with accelerometer and Frändin-Grimby scale.

Results: 8 participants completed the study (mean age 66.6 years, 50% women). The average attendance rate was 84%. No adverse events were reported. The participants’ mean total score on the Mini-BESTest before and after intervention was 21.2 vs. 23.3 (p=0.093). Positive trend was seen for MADRS and PDQ-8. The participants reported the training to be fun and improve well-being.

Conclusion: Our pilot study indicates that table tennis training is safe, feasible and has potential to improve balance control and physical function in individuals with PD.

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MDS Abstracts - https://www.mdsabstracts.org/abstract/a-pilot-study-of-the-feasibility-and-effects-of-table-tennis-training-in-parkinsons-disease/