The Impact of Exercise on the Cardiovascular Function in Parkinson Disease: A Systematic Review

Background and Purpose: Parkinson disease (PD) is a neurodegenerative disease characterized by motor impairments leading to loss of mobility. People with PD often are sedentary due to the fear of falling thus increasing the risk of cardiovascular (CV) disease and a reduction in quality of life. Therapeutic exercise training is recommended to improve motor function that additionally helps improve the CV function of these individuals. The purpose of this systematic review aims to update the PD literature by assessing the evidence about the effect of exercise on CV function in people with PD. Thus, advocating for early exercise intervention and making recommendations to improve CV health. Methods: Databases searched include CINHAL, PubMed, Web of Science, Physiotherapy Evidence Database, and Cochrane CENTRAL. Results: The number of combined database results was 423. Two independent reviewers screened titles, abstracts, and full articles, and a third reviewer refuted any disagreements. Two hundred seventy-nine were screened. Discussion: The studies confirm that most of the PD population have CV issues, with implications for decreased physical activity, obesity, and metabolic diseases. Prevention of CV health issues is necessary to reduce long-term conditions. Collectively, the findings show that exercise improves CV function in people with PD. Conclusions: The results showed the overall benefits of exercise on CV dysfunction seen in people with PD. Exercise training at prescribed intensities promote better emotional well-being and CV benefits. Decreased physical activity is a precursor of CV disorders and timely identification, and referral for therapy is vital to reduce CV disease progression in the PD population.