According to the Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, Parkinson's disease is a motor system disorder that causes the loss of brain cells that produce dopamine. Symptoms of Parkinson's includes uncontrolled shaking of the hands, arms, legs and face, body and limb stiffness, slowed movement and decreased coordination. In more advanced cases of Parkinson's patients have problems with simple functions such as talking or walking. There is currently no cure for Parkinson's disease. In the fall 2009 Parkinson's Disease Foundation newsletter, Giselle M. Petzinger, M.D. wrote that exercise cannot only help maintain or improve motor skills in Parkinson's patients, it can also help the brain as it adjusts to the loss of dopamine. It is important that patients consult a physician or therapist about any exercise program.
Facial Exercises
Exercises that work facial and throat muscles can be done anywhere with little or no supervision. Parkinson's Disease Guide profiles a number of these exercises. Everyday activities like chewing, talking and singing work different facial muscle groups. The key is exaggeration. Emphasize the movement of the mouth or make faces to stretch muscles. Yawning will help develop the muscles in the throat. It can battle problems that occur while swallowing, it can also help improve speech.
Body Stretches
Even if a Parkinson's patient's mobility is limited there are still stretches that can be beneficial. These stretches profiled in the Better Health Channel website can be done alone or with assistance. First, while lying down or sitting, point your toes upwards and move your feet in a circle. Second, stretch your wrists by moving them up and down. Third, rotate your palms to an upward or downward position. Finally, while sitting, try to stretch your legs out as far as possible.
Head Stretches
Stretching the head, next and shoulders can work in harmony with facial exercises to help with speech and other motor skills. Do these exercises from a sitting position to avoid falling. For exercise one, slowly rotate your head from side to side. Next, try to look over your shoulder. Third, look up towards the ceiling, then move your head down and try to touch your chin to your chest. Fourth, try to touch your ear to your shoulder. Finally, roll your shoulders forwards and backwards.
Other Exercises
There are other forms of therapy for patients with advanced Parkinson's. These exercises could require assistance. Working with light weights can help delay muscle deterioration. They should be light enough to avoid fatigue. Further, doing exercises in a warm pool help lessen a patients weight to avoid falling and injury.
