Automated mechanical peripheral stimulation for gait rehabilitation in Parkinson's disease: A comprehensive review

BACKGROUND: Automated Mechanical Peripheral Stimulation (AMPS) has emerged as a potential rehabilitative intervention for gait abnormalities in Parkinson's disease (PD). However, the long-term effects and combined therapy with physical exercise remain unclear. This review aimed to explore the effects of automated mechanical peripheral stimulation (AMPS) on gait and motor performance in individuals with Parkinson's disease (PD). METHODS: A research was conducted in relevant databases to identify studies investigating the effects of AMPS on gait and motor outcomes in PD patients. Inclusion criteria were set based on Population, Concept, and Context (PCC) criteria. Data extraction and analysis were performed to synthesize the findings. RESULTS: Ten studies met the inclusion criteria and were included in the review. The studies collectively demonstrated positive effects of AMPS on gait parameters, such as walking velocity, stride length, and walking stability. Some studies also reported improvements in functional performance and muscle activation during walking. CONCLUSIONS: The findings suggest that AMPS holds promise as a potential intervention to improve gait and motor performance in individuals with PD. However, the evidence is limited, and further well-designed randomized controlled trials are needed to establish the long-term efficacy and optimal protocols for AMPS in PD rehabilitation.