International Research Journal of Education and Technology

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a progressive neurodegenerative illness that chiefly manifests itself through motor symptoms of bradykinesia, muscular rigidity, resting tremor, and postural instability. These motor dysfunctions frequently result in substantial functional impairment, threatening to increase the risk of falls, loss of independence, and diminished quality of life for those with PD. Among these features, gait disorder and impaired balance are notably disabling, frequently worsening as PD progresses. Although pharmacological treatments like levodopa and dopamine agonists are widely employed to control motor symptoms, these tend to lose efficacy with time and do not serve to balance defects. Therefore, non-pharmacological treatment has gained priority as an adjunct to the treatment of PD symptoms.

In recent years, treatments like yoga and physical therapy have shown promising results in improving postural control, flexibility, strength, and overall mobility for patients with Parkinson’s disease. Yoga focuses on breath control, mindfulness, and controlled movement. It may improve proprioception and lower the fear of falling. Physical therapy includes structured exercises that strengthen muscles, improve range of motion, and retrain gait patterns. This study aims to explore and compare the effects of yoga and physical therapy on balance and gait in individuals with PD by looking at findings from current literature, clinical trials, and rehabilitation protocols.

The research shows the potential benefits of adding these therapies to routine PD management. It emphasizes their role in preventing falls and improving mobility. Furthermore, the study suggests that personalized therapy plans combining yoga and physical therapy may produce better results. In the end, incorporating non-drug treatments into overall care strategies can greatly improve the quality of life for Parkinson’s disease patients, lessen caregiver stress, and help with more effective long-term disease management.

Key Words-Yoga, Phisiotheraphy, Parkinson's Disease, Balance, Gait