The effects of exercise on non-motor experiences of daily living experienced in Parkinson’s Disease: A systematic review and network meta-analysis

INTRODUCTION: Whilst non-motor experiences of daily living (NMeDL) reduce quality of life (QoL) in people with Parkinson’s Disease (PD), research dedicated to NMeDL is lacking compared to motor symptoms. The aim of this Network Meta-Analysis (NMA) was to compare and determine the effects of exercise and dual-task training interventions on NMeDL for people with early-to-mid stage PD. METHODS: Eight electronic databases were systematically searched, identifying randomised control trials (RCTs) that assessed the effect of interventions on the Movement Disease Society - Unified Parkinson’s Disease Rating Scale (MDS-UPDRS); Part I scores. A fixed-effect pairwise and NMA were completed and confidence in estimates were assessed using the Confidence in Network Meta-Analysis (CINeMA) framework. RESULTS: Five RCTs involving exercise were identified, involving 218 participants. No dual-tasking studies were suitable. Pairwise comparisons favoured tango and mixed-treadmill training (TT) when compared to control, however 95% Confidence Intervals (CI) crossed the line of no effect (MD = 0). Indirect comparisons revealed tango had clinically meaningful reductions in Part I scores compared to speed-TT and body-weight resistance training, (MD −4.47; 95% CI −8.50 to −0.44 and MD −4.38; 95% CI −7.86 to –0.90), indicating improved NMeDL. Compared to control, low confidence evidence suggests tango and mixed-TT improves NMeDL. CONCLUSIONS: Tango and mixed-TT are the most effective exercise interventions for improving NMeDL. Adoption of an exercise program in the early stages of PD, irrespective of modality, may be effective and holds potential clinical importance immediately following a diagnosis of PD. Other: Prospero Registration Number; CRD42022322470.