The effect of kinesiophobia on motor symptoms in individuals with Parkinson's Disease.

BACKGROUND

Parkinson's Disease (PD) is characterized by motor and non-motor symptoms that impair balance, mobility, and overall physical function. Kinesiophobia, defined as the fear of movement due to pain or injury concerns, may further exacerbate these impairments by promoting activity avoidance. This study aimed to investigate the impact of kinesiophobia on motor symptoms in individuals with PD.

METHODS

A total of 51 individuals diagnosed with PD were included in the study. Participants were divided into two groups-low and high kinesiophobia-based on their scores on the Tampa Scale for Kinesiophobia (TSK). Motor assessments included the Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale (UPDRS), Berg Balance Scale (BBS), Timed Up and Go (TUG) test, Activities-specific Balance Confidence (ABC) scale, and Six-Minute Walk Test (6MWT).

RESULTS

High kinesiophobia was significantly associated with older age and longer disease duration. MANCOVA revealed significant group differences in balance (BBS) and walking endurance (6MWT), with the high kinesiophobia group performing worse (p < 0.05). Partial correlations showed a strong negative association between kinesiophobia and walking capacity (r = -0.608, p < 0.001). Hierarchical regression analyses revealed that kinesiophobia was a significant independent predictor of poorer motor function, reduced walking endurance, and decreased balance confidence (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Kinesiophobia negatively impacts motor symptoms and functional mobility in PD, beyond demographic and disease-related factors. Addressing the fear of movement in rehabilitation may improve physical function and reduce the risk of falls in this population.