Named for James Parkinson, an English physician who provided the first accurate description of the condition in 1817, Parkinson's disease commonly produces progressive muscle rigidity, movement impairment and tremors that begin in the fingers. Although no cure exists for Parkinson's disease, appropriate exercises can complement drug therapy to help maintain normal muscle tone and function.
Dopamine Deficiency
Parkinson's disease occurs from a dopamine deficiency that prevents nerve cells in the brain from performing their normal function within the central nervous system. The human body needs dopamine to help brain cells make connections with other brain cells to perform daily physical functions such as walking and talking. According to the Parkinson's Disease Foundation, however, people with PD who exercise daily move more normally than those who don't exercise. The exercise may be contributing to neuroplasticity, which allows the brain to maintain old connections, form new ones and restore lost ones.
Expert Insight
Compelling scientific proof indicates exercise can improve walking and other physical functions for Parkinson's patients. According to the Parkinson's Foundation, Dr. Giselle M. Petzinger of the University of Southern California reports that animal studies show that exercise makes for stronger and longer dopamine signals. Additionally, animal studies also indicate that exercise may help to recondition brain circuitry, leading to enhanced strength, balance, range of motion and mobility.
Contact Your Doctor
Before beginning a home exercise program for Parkinson's disease, you should consult with your physician so he can connect you with a physical therapist. Both your physician and physical therapist can develop an effective exercise program to suit your needs. In addition, you may require higher doses of prescribed medication during periods of added activity, so consult your neurologist about any dosage adjustments you might need.
Exercises
Physical therapy should include stretching, range of motion exercises, routine daily activities and walking. Ideally, you should start with a warm-up of stretching exercises followed by 20 minutes of aerobic exercise to ramp up your heart rate. The Better Health Channel suggests a program that targets overall fitness and muscle flexibility, and incorporates exercises that work on your face, arms and torso, legs, head and shoulders and hands and wrists. You can start simply by performing such activities as exaggerating facial expressions, raising your arms overhead, marching in place, rolling your shoulders and clenching and unclenching your fists. A trained physical therapist can devise the best plan for you.
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