Objective:

To compare the rehabilitative efficacy of Baduanjin against brisk walking specifically in terms of postural control, motor, and non-motor functions in patients with early- to mid-stage Parkinson's disease.

Key Findings:

• Baduanjin group showed significantly greater improvements in MDS-UPDRS-III compared to Brisk Walking (P < 0.05).
• Baduanjin reduced anxiety more significantly at 12 weeks (P = 0.014) and improved cognition at 6 weeks (P = 0.015).
• Depression improved only in the Baduanjin group (P = 0.015).
• Both groups improved sleep and quality of life.
• Baduanjin demonstrated superior gait parameters, including TUG duration and turning time (all P < 0.05).
• No significant between-group differences were observed in limb subscale or BBS (all P > 0.05).

Interpretation:

Baduanjin training appears to provide greater improvements in motor symptoms and non-motor outcomes compared to brisk walking, suggesting it as a beneficial non-pharmacological rehabilitation option for PD patients, with potential implications for enhancing patient care.

Limitations:

• Small sample size (32 participants) may limit generalizability.
• Short intervention duration may not capture long-term effects.
• Future research should explore the long-term benefits of Baduanjin.

Conclusion:

Baduanjin offers a safe, culturally acceptable rehabilitation option that may effectively address core motor deficits in early- to mid-stage Parkinson's disease, highlighting its potential role in patient care.