The effects of verbal instructions on gait in people with Parkinson's disease: a systematic review of randomized and non-randomized trials

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: To collate and appraise empirical evidence relating to the effects of verbal instructions (verbal commands given by another person) on stride length, gait velocity and stride variability in people with Parkinson's disease. DATA SOURCES: Cinahl, Cochrane, Embase, Medline, PEDro, PsycINFO and Web of Science. REVIEW METHODS: Independent reviewers extracted data from eligible studies and assessed methodological quality. The level of evidence was determined by best evidence synthesis based upon the experimental design, methodological quality and statistical findings of individual studies. RESULTS: One randomized controlled study and 12 non-controlled studies fulfilled the selection cri..