A Parkinsons Disease Exercise Routine Is Important To Maximize Mobility And Balance

By Amanda Barnes


Parkinson's is a worldwide disease that attacks more than sixty thousand people each year. There is currently no cure for this debilitating disorder. Physicians recommend medications that can sometimes reduce symptoms, but also encourage patients to get plenty of rest and exercise in order to maintain as normal a lifestyle as possible. If you have been diagnosed with the condition, you should talk to your doctor about the best parkinsons disease exercise routine for you.

Your doctor can work with you to tailor an activity regimen that suits the stage of your illness. It is important to discuss all your concerns and get answers to your questions before you start exercising at home on your own. Depending on your particular situation, you doctor will evaluate the types of exercises that will be most beneficial and the ones you should avoid. The amount of time you spend exercising and the amount of exertion you can safely expend will be determined by your overall condition.

Your complete workout may consist of sets of exercises and cardiovascular activities that last thirty minutes or so. In the beginning, you will probably find that you tire quickly and are unable to complete the full routine. You should not be discouraged or concerned. It may take a month or more before you can get through the entire routine. It is perfectly fine to work out for five to ten minutes and gradually extend your workout. Even if you only exercise for five minutes, warming up is still important.

It is not unusual for Parkinson's sufferers to experience a progressive lack of facial expression. This can be accompanied by a reduced ability to speak expressively. Doctors often recommend specific facial exercises to increase mobility and singing to work vocal cords and throat muscles. Since you are not rehearsing for Broadway with your singing, it won't matter how good you sound to others.

If you have a membership at a YMCA or access to a community, private club, or private pool, there are a number of good aerobic water exercises that will increase your mobility and strength. Exercises you would not even attempt out of the water are possible because of the buoyancy in the pool. A lot of Parkinson's patients love to swim and do laps as a form of exercise. This is great, but you don't have to be a strong swimmer to get the benefit of exercising in a pool.

When you are exercising, safety should be a primary concern. Balance is an issue for many with the condition. If you have this problem, be sure to position yourself in an area of the room where you can grab a railing or other sturdy object to help you. Avoid, or move, things like throw rugs and make sure the room is well lit.

Regular exercising is something some people find they enjoy. Others would rather do anything else. In this instance, you should find another outlet that allows you to move and use your muscles. Some people love to garden or walk. Whatever you do, it should become a regular part of your weekly routine.

The diagnosis of Parkinson's is frightening. Most people imagine a limited future and physical deterioration. It is possible to live a full life by staying active and maintaining a positive attitude however.




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