The benefits of exercise extend to people with disability and diseases such as Parkinson's disease. Weight training preserves muscle function and well-being, while improving activities of daily living. According to the American College of Sports Medicine, exercise has been promoted as a method of extending life since the 1960s.
Pathology
According to the National Center on Physical Activity and Disability, Parkinson's disease is the second most common neurodegenerative disease, affecting 3 percent of Americans over the age of 65. With Parkinson's disease, dopamine is lost due to death of dopamine cells in the body. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that influences motor skill and certain areas of the brain responsible for thinking. The loss of dopamine results in tremors when resting, slow movements, and problems with walking and posture.
Benefits
Weight training provides numerous benefits for the person with Parkinson's disease. Weight training maintains and increases muscular endurance. Certain exercises may improve balance. Weight training assists in stress reduction and mood elevation, and according to NCPAD, prevents osteoporosis and controls high blood pressure.
Considerations
Before beginning a weight training program, obtain a medical clearance and consent from a physician. Maintain a regular medication and exercise schedule to minimize complications. If possible, complete a fitness assessment to determine effect of medication on exercise response. Partner with an orthopedic physician to minimize issues associated with overuse.
Strength Training Guidelines
Working with a physical therapist or exercise specialist to create an individualized strength training program is recommended. Use light weights for strength training. Between 2 and 5 pounds is recommended. If light weights are not available, use juice cans, water jugs or other bottles. Weight should be lifted through the full range of motion for two to three sets and 10 repetitions at three sessions per week.
Muscle Groups
Emphasis is given to the extensor muscles of the body because they open and extend the joints. Key extensor muscles to train are the muscles of the calves, thighs, buttocks, back and upper arm. Toe raises and extensions strengthen the muscles of the calves. Knee extension and knee raises strengthen the muscles of the thighs. The buttock muscles are strengthened by squats and leg raises. Back extension exercises strengthen the muscles of the spine, and triceps extension exercises strengthen the triceps muscle.
Expert Insight
According to NCPAD, physicans often underestimate the importance of exercise in the management of Parkinson's disease. Physicans have a tendency to prescribe medication alone. But studies by Formissano et al. show that drug therapy along with exercise lower the disability in people with Parkinson's disease.
References
- ACSM's Exercise Management for Persons with Chronic Disease and Disabilities; Human Kinetics, 1997
- NCPAD: Fact Sheet
- NCPAD: Scandinavian Journal of Rehabilitation and Medicine
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