There has been considerable growth in research on the impact of dance on the progression of Parkinson’s disease. There have been over 150 research papers published in the last five years. Significant effort has been made to consolidate common themes from over 70 experimental studies through systematic review and meta-analysis (a technique that merges findings of independent studies in search of a common theme).

Studies have shown that over the course of one month of continuous participation in specialized dance classes, participants have noted improvements in:

• Body control and motor performance

• Body position and mobility

• Dynamic postural stability and strengthening of muscle tone

• Coordination, balance, and consistency of gait and control

• Increased independence and functional autonomy

Furthermore, studies have also revealed:

• Reduction of bradykinesia (slowness of movement) and rigidity

• Reduction of tremors and gait freezing

• Reduction in gait variability

• Reduced fatigue during motor execution

In addition to improvements in motor function and movement-associated deficits, other significant findings have been reported.

• Neuroprotective enhancements in cognitive functions

• An overall sense of well being

• Reduced depressive symptoms

• Improved quality of life

Interestingly, studies have noted the positive effects of dance lasting long after participation in dance classes.

Many adapted dance forms are known to have significant benefits. Adapted Argentine tango, Irish set, contact improvisation, Dance for PD, foxtrot, ballet, salsa, ballroom, bharatanatyam, waltz, and many more forms of dance have been explored in different parts of the world. They all seem to show similar noticeable improvements for people experiencing symptoms of Parkinson’s disease.

• Dancing involves visual focus, rhythm, imagery, and visualization that can help initiate movement

• Participation in a dance-based program within a community setting also fosters connection and creates a sense of belonging

• Rhythmic movements have shown to propagate neuroprotective effects via intellectual, emotional, and motor stimulations in the participants

• Dance practice is known to employ the reward system in the brain by increasing dopamine release
  

While further research is needed to gain an even deeper understanding of the effect of dance on people living with Parkinson’s disease, these findings suggest that we can confidently say to keep dancing!