Parkinson's disease is a progressive neurological movement disorder that has no cure, yet there are ways you can lessen or improve its symptoms. There are numerous medications and a special type of brain surgery called deep brain stimulation which can help. However, if you are in the early stages of the disease, implementing a good home exercise program is crucial. Ask your doctor to refer you to a physical therapist who works specifically with people who suffer from movement disorders.
Expert Insight
The benefits of daily, moderate to intense exercise have now been recognized favorably by neurologists and others who work with movement disorders. Physical therapists can help with maintaining your strength and endurance. In addition, they can help you overcome issues typical of Parkinson's patients, such as control, flexibility, gait, balance, freezing and falling.
Considerations
A physical therapist can implement a personalized exercise program that may help with movement issues that you may experience as the disease progresses. If you can't afford a physical therapist or your insurance doesn't cover it, you can create your own exercise program. However, it is still a good idea to talk with your doctor first. Exercising not only enhances movement, it also offers you more confidence in daily functions.
Types
The three main components you should incorporate into your daily workout include stretching, strength training and aerobic exercise. Stretching helps with flexibility, strength training with keeping your muscles toned and tight, and aerobic helps with cardiovascular fitness. Do a warmup exercise before you start. Stretch your arms over your head, clasp your hands together and alternate leaning from left to right. You can also do leg lunges. Do these simple warmups approximately three times and hold each stretch for five breaths.
Aerobic
After you have completed the warmup phase, you may want to perform the aerobic component. Walking is the most easy, near-perfect way to increase your heart rate.Try to walk on a flat surface and take long strides. If you live in an urban area, find a local recreation center that has an indoor track, or a local school with an outdoor track. If walking does not appeal to you, a stationary bicycle, or a treadmill are sufficient for cardiovascular exercises. Aerobic exercises should be done at least three times a week.
Strengthening
Next, complete the stretching and strengthening aspects of your home program. One easy exercise is to face a wall about eight inches away and stretch your arms up over your head. Then reach out to place your hands on the wall for balance, stretch out your arms and back by pressing against the wall. For strength training, use light, hand-held weights. Try to repeat each exercise eight to ten times. If you need more motivation, ideas, or information, a good resource is the Davis Phinney Foundation for Parkinson's. Phinney, a Tour de France bicyclist who developed early onset Parkinson's, gives tips and advice on exercises you can do right from home.
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