Parkinson's disease is a motor system disorder caused by the irreversible destruction of dopamine-producing brain cells. The disorder causes shaking and difficulty with walking, movement and coordination. There is no cure for the disease. It is treated with medication aimed at minimizing symptoms. Exercise may be beneficial to sufferers, particularly in the earlier stages of the disease.
Parkinson's Disease
Parkinson's disease affects both men and women and usually arises after the age of 50. Symptoms last for a long period of time and gradually worsen. The main symptoms are tremors in the hands, jaw, legs and arms, rigidity in the limbs and trunk, slowness of movement, poor balance and impaired coordination.
Loosening Muscles
Exercises for loosening muscles include sitting in a chair and raising a pillow or broom stick slowly above the head several times. To loosen leg muscles, sit on the floor and alternately raise each leg several times. You can keep your neck muscles supple by lying on the floor or on your bed and turning your head as far to the right as possible, then turning it as far to the left as possible and repeating as many times as is comfortable.
Improving Balance
You can help improve your balance and coordination by marching on the spot for two to three minutes. You can also practice walking by taking as long a stride as possible and swinging your arms by your sides. This will help coordination and momentum. Practice turning by taking small steps to the side and rocking gently from side to side until you can make the turn.
Chewing and Talking
If you are having difficulties chewing or talking, practicing speaking or singing aloud in front of a mirror. Exaggerate your lip movements and practice making faces. When you bathe, massage your face vigorously to loosen the muscles and improve circulation. When you eat, chew your food slowly, move it around your mouth and do not swallow it until the pieces are very small.
