A1 Journal article (refereed)
Group Rehabilitation in Parkinson’s Disease : a Case Study Combining Music and Physiotherapy (2025)


Ruotsalainen, J., Carlson, E., & Erkkilä, J. (2025). Group Rehabilitation in Parkinson’s Disease : a Case Study Combining Music and Physiotherapy. Nordic Journal of Music Therapy, Early online. https://doi.org/10.1080/08098131.2024.2445819


JYU authors or editors


Publication details

All authors or editors: Ruotsalainen, Jaana; Carlson, Emily; Erkkilä, Jaakko

Journal or series: Nordic Journal of Music Therapy

ISSN: 0809-8131

eISSN: 1944-8260

Publication year: 2025

Volume: Early online

Publisher: Routledge

Publication country: United Kingdom

Publication language: English

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1080/08098131.2024.2445819

Publication open access: Not open

Publication channel open access: 

Publication is parallel published (JYX): https://jyx.jyu.fi/handle/123456789/99869


Abstract

Introduction: Neurological patients, such as those with Parkinson’s Disease (PD) often have multiple treatment needs beyond motor rehabilitation. The integration of multiple therapy modalities allows a single therapist to address physical, social and emotional needs.

Method: The current study comprises a case example of an integrated approach in the form of a small group therapy intervention integrating music and physiotherapy methods. Five men (60-70 years) with PD participated in 20 sessions over five months, which included group discussion, listening to and making music, and music-supported physiotherapy interventions addressing flexibility, respiration, relaxation, rhythmic movements, and speech. Data comprised pre- and post-therapy tests as well as thematic analysis of the therapist’s clinical notes.

Results: Quantitative analysis found that each participant showed a pattern of improvement in physical and psychosocial measures, with the most notable group-level improvement being an increase of 44% in participants' self-reported relaxation ability. Participants also improved their balance and coordination when walking. The qualitative analysis showed that music was an important factor in developing social bonds within the group.

Discussion: This study provides an example how a multi-professional approach to rehabilitation can efficiently address the complex needs of patients with PD and provides insights relevant to further rehabilitation research.


Keywords: music therapy; physiotherapy; multi-professionalism; group rehabilitation; conversation; peer support; psychosocial support; Parkinson's disease

Free keywords: music therapy; physiotherapy; peer support; multi-professional therapy; group therapy; speech


Contributing organizations


Ministry reporting: Yes

VIRTA submission year: 2025

Preliminary JUFO rating: 2


Last updated on 2025-22-02 at 20:05