Parkinson's is a disease of the nervous system that directly affects muscle movement throughout the body. Muscles, specifically those in your arms and legs, can be rigid in Parkinson's, making movement difficult and challenging. While there are medications and surgeries that may help alleviate symptoms, physical therapy is equally important. Water aerobics can help build muscle strength and provide comfort.
Significance
If you have been diagnosed with Parkinson's disease, it can be difficult to think of what lies ahead. Taking charge of your health is the most important thing you can do to assure you are following through with treatment. Parkinson's affects how flexible your movement is and how you are able to get around. Strengthening muscles and keeping them in good shape is essential at coping with the symptoms of Parkinson's disease. Water aerobics allows you to still work out your core muscles while having zero impact on your body, making it easier to strength train.
Treatment
There is no cure for Parkinson's disease. By combining medication, physical therapy, surgery and alternative medicine treatment you can maintain a healthy lifestyle with Parkinson's. The American Parkinson's Disease Association explains that physical therapy, including non-impact exercise such as water aerobics can help with symptoms such as a shuffling gait, freezing or slowing of movements and dystonia -- involuntary contractions of your muscles.
Types
There are some water aerobic exercises that you can do either at your home pool or with your physical therapist and you may need to ask for assistance if needed. Water marching is low impact and helps you increase movement in both arms and legs. Extend arms and legs as far as possible and point tows and move arms back and forth by taking large steps. Women's Fitness recommends a waist exercise. Hanging on the poolside -- face toward the inside of the pool. Extend legs straight ahead and swing back and forth to strengthen and tone abdominals.
Prevention
Practicing water aerobic exercises regularly may help make your day to day movements more manageable. Water aerobics also strengthens your cardiovascular system. Aerobic activity helps increase your fitness level, reduces LDL cholesterol levels, decreases your risk for heart disease and helps control hypertension, explains the American Heart Association.
Warning
Always consult with your primary care physician before beginning any exercise, especially if you have Parkinson's disease. If your physical health has deteriorated significantly, you may not be healthy enough for water aerobics. Never swim alone -- always have a workout buddy or assistant available in case you cannot get out of the water safely.
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