Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a complex neurodegenerative disorder which results from a progressive loss of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra pars compacta. Disability can occur at all stages of PD, leading to decreased independence, inactivity, social isolation, and reduced quality of life. Symptoms such as hypokinesia, rigidity, resting tremor, and postural instability affect motor performance in people with PD, who are unable to generate adequate amplitude of movement. Thus, individuals face increased difficulties with activities of daily living and various aspects of mobility such as gait, transfers, balance, and posture. In addition to the motor deficits, people with PD may suffer from a cognitive decline, especially executive dysfunction (even in the early stages of the disease), further impinging on fall risk and quality of life.

The management of PD has traditionally centered on drug therapy. However, even with optimal medical management, people with PD experience deterioration in body function, daily activities, and participation. On these bases, the role of rehabilitation has gained a prominent place in the overall management of PD. Specifically; there is a move towards using rehabilitation procedures as an adjunct to pharmacological and surgical treatments with an emphasis on multidisciplinary management of this multidimensional condition.

We invite investigators to submit original research articles and reviews that will contribute to the field of rehabilitation for people with PD. We are particularly interested in articles proposing evidence of innovative rehabilitation protocols, including treatments based on motor-cognitive approaches. We are equally interested in articles aimed at comparing the effects of different rehabilitation therapies, including cost-effectiveness analyses.

Potential topics include, but are not limited to:

• Effects of physical activity on people with PD
• Physiotherapy interventions in PD
• Role of electromechanical and robot-assisted training in PD
• Use of virtual reality in the rehabilitation of PD
• Telerehabilitation for people with PD
• Role of cognitive dysfunction in PD rehabilitation