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Parkinsonian Links
Physical Therapy
and Parkinson's Disease
This recent "News" was not news to most Parkinson patients at all: It is not difficult to locate a physical therapy or exercise program. Here are several: Other links regarding physical therapy and exercise may be found on Murray Charter's web site.
JOG, ROLL, WALK OR STROLL:
PHYSICAL ACTIVITY AND
PARKINSONS
It is well known that we are often most active physically in seasons of good
weather. With the return of autumn, there is a tendency to retreat indoors and wait
for spring in the warmth and comfort of a favourite easy chair. Yet physical
activity, recognized as beneficial to health in general, is even more important to
Parkinsonians. It is certainly easier to maintain present mobility than to try to repair
the effects of prolonged inactivity.
Over the past twenty years, research has contributed in a spectacular manner to the
management of chronic conditions such as Parkinsons. Although the cure has not
yet been discovered, much current research is focused on this. In the meantime,
improved medications, in spite of their limitations, do allow Parkinsonians to enjoy
a better quality of life.
For medications to have optimal effect, Parkinsonians must actively work to
maintain mobility, and whenever possible, to retain those abilities that appear to be
slipping. Regular physical activity is one of the best possible means (if not THE
best). Through exercise, you are involved in your own treatment and contributing
to your own physical health. What's more, regaining control over your body, will
also improve your sense of well-being.
Several medical studies have been conducted that prove the benefits of physical
exercise for Parkinsonians. Those who remain active feel better, they are more
able to handle activities of daily life, and seem to enjoy better health. The risk of
falls and injury is also decreased.
Why is it so important to improve physical health?
Few people can see themselves involved in the rigorous training used by
competitive athletes. However, the goal of physical activity is something different:
first, and above all, it is to gain greater ability to manage the simple activities of
daily life such as getting dressed, doing the housework, and running errands. The
actions of every day life are made up of hundreds of movements. These may be
automatic for most people, but Parkinsons gradually makes them more difficult and
tiring. The benefits of regular exercise show up every day, perhaps not in a
spectacular manner, but through an improved quality of life which is worth more
than Olympic medals!
Different types of exercise help a person correct specific problems. For example,
exercises that stretch the spinal column and strengthen back muscles will improve
posture. Other exercises help with problems of balance. Coordination and dexterity
of movement can also be improved through suitable exercises. Muscles must be
used to remain strong. Breathing exercises help prevent infection, and also have a
relaxing yet energizing effect.
There are centres that offer specialized exercise programs, and you are encouraged
to participate in these. However, for maximum benefits, regular exercise is
indispensable. It is daily practice that builds strength. Each walk outdoors, each
practice session at home is a chance to concentrate particularly on posture and gait:
to emphasize lifting the knees higher instead of dragging the feet, to swing the arms
in rhythm, to hold the head up, to look directly ahead instead of watching the floor.
All these don't require any special equipment or a professional trainer. Nothing can
be more important than to conserve your ability to move easily.
A few deep breaths while maintaining an erect posture help the lungs to work
better, at the same time giving a bit of relaxation exercise, not to mention that
better breathing capacity will also enhance speech. Again, anyone can enjoy the
benefits of such exercise, as often as they wish.
The key to getting in shape is to choose activities that you enjoy. The list of
possibilities is long: walking, cycling, dancing, yoga, Tai Chi, and swimming.
Sharing them with another person, a friend, a spouse, is a good idea since you can
encourage each other, congratulate each other on the progress and perseverance.
For those who have difficulty getting out of the house, establish a daily exercise
routine set to your favourite music. Many Parkinsonians find that music helps
movement. Take advantage of this.
A real motivating factor for regular exercise is the conviction that well-being is each
person's responsibility. Physical activity such as SuperWalk also provides an
opportunity to contribute to the health of others, there is no excuse to hold back!
What is important is to participate! Now is the perfect time to begin a new program
of physical activity.
Nancy Miller, Co-ordinator of Movement Disorders Clinic, St. Peter's Hospital,
Hamilton, ON
Discuss with your physician any health conditions that may limit your own
personal exercise program
Return to Links Page, "Physical Therapy"
E-mail me with comments at
epr@airmail.net. | It is a sad fact that every web page
like this must add "Disclaimers apply." Revised 5 March, 2004 |  | |
