Exercise improves anxiety, apathy symptoms in early PD

For patients with early Parkinson’s disease (PD), engaging in physical activity helps lower anxiety and apathy scores over time, as shown in a recent study.

The study followed 121 PD patients (mean age, 64.5 years), all of whom completed the Physical Activity Scale for the Elderly (PASE) annually.

Those with high versus low physical activity at baseline (PASE scores >150 vs <150) were significantly younger (61.25 vs 67.64; p<0.001), lower motor scores (Movement Disorders Society-Unified PD Rating Scale [MDS-UPDRS] part 3, 18.56 vs 22.80; p=0.018), lower levodopa equivalent daily dose (157.43 vs 216; p=0.024), lower memory and attention domain scores on the Non-Motor Symptom Assessment Scale (NMSS; 1.00 vs 2.62; p=0.008), and better self-reported quality of life (79.6 vs 74.7; p=0.031).

Activity scores in early PD declined over 1 year of follow-up.

In a multivariate regression model controlled for demographic variables and medications, baseline physical activity was associated with decreased anxiety and apathy scores at year 1.

More studies with longer follow-up durations and the use of technology devices, such as movement sensors, as well as brain imaging are needed to provide objective measures of physical activity and affective conditions, the authors suggested. This should help establish the causal relationship between physical activity and mood symptoms.

The mechanisms whereby physical activity can improve anxiety and apathy are not entirely known, but evidence suggests complex interactions of psychological and neurobiological mechanisms. Also, exercise helps break the cycle of apathy and reduced self-help behaviour, which in turn can alleviate other symptoms in PD.