Friday, March 29, 2024

Good Exercises For Parkinson’s Disease

Try Seated Exercises If You Have Limited Mobility

Top 5 Hand Exercises for Parkinson’s Disease

Performing strength and flexibility exercises while sitting can help you stay fit and improve your range of motion all with minimal stress and wear and tear on your muscles and joints.

An example of a seated stretching routine recommended by the Parkinsons Foundation is the hamstring stretch. To do this stretch:

  • Sit tall in a chair and place one leg straight out on another chair.
  • Keep your toes pointed upward, your knee flat, and your back straight.
  • Gently reach for your toes with both arms.
  • Only reach as far forward as you can without bending your knee and without feeling strain.
  • Switch legs and repeat.
  • An example of a strength exercise you can perform while sitting down is the shoulder blade squeeze. To perform this exercise:

  • Sit with your back straight and your buttocks forward on the edge of a chair.
  • Open your arms out to the sides, with your fingers spread.
  • Pull your arms back and squeeze shoulder blades together.
  • Your physical therapist can recommend additional seated exercises.

    Working With A Physical Therapist To Create An Exercise Plan

    Physical therapists are experts in getting people moving. While most people think physical therapy is just for rehabbing after an injury, its an important part of preventive care and treatment for patients with chronic conditions like Parkinsons disease.

    Your experience with Parkinsons disease is unique. So, when you work with a physical therapist, they can design a personalized program for you. Theyll teach you specific exercises to manage your unique symptoms and keep you engaged in activity.

    How often should you meet with a physical therapist? Checking in at least once or twice a year can help you develop an exercise plan that fits with your current level of mobility and the season.

    How Does Exercise Help

    There is increasing evidence that exercise may have a neuroprotective effect, meaning that it can slow the progression of your condition. Researchers think that exercise can delay the onset of Parkinsons as well as slow progression if introduced early on.

    There are also psychological benefits to exercise. It wont take Parkinsons away but it can give you a sense of control over it and make you feel better about living with the condition. This, together with a good medication regime, can really enhance quality of life and help you maintain independence. You can tailor your regime to suit your own individual abilities and requirements, whether you want to maintain the strength and fitness you already have or get yourself fitter and healthier. Remember, its never too late to start and the benefits can be enormous.

    Some of the benefits of regular exercise include:

    • improved balance and fewer falls
    • improved posture and flexibility
    • improved brain function and health
    • fewer muscle and joint injuries
    • preventing/reducing gait, sleep, speech and swallowing problems
    • preventing/reducing bone wasting .

    You should tell your physiotherapist or occupational therapist if you plan to use a Wii to exercise. Ask your doctor for advice if you have any concerns about using this tool.

    Dance, for example Irish set dancing, tango, waltz and foxtrot, has also been shown to improve symptoms. For more information on dance and its benefits in Parkinson’s see Dance therapy.

    References:

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    How Do I Get Started

    Once you have checked with your doctor that Nordic walking is safe and suitable for you, you will need to buy a pair of walking poles. There are various makes to try, so ask others who walk for recommendations and check with specialist companies for advice on choosing suitable poles.

    As Nordic walking poles spend a considerable amount of time behind you, they have a strap which goes around your wrist so that the poles can be released behind you and then quickly held again when in front of you. When choosing poles make sure the grip is comfortable and the strap large enough for you to easily slip your hand in and out. The swing-weight is also an important factor, so dont get anything too heavy or too light you should be able to maintain the natural arm swing without too much vibration. Poles are generally quite slim and have an adjustable length. They usually have two different types of end spikes for gripping grass, mud or ice, or a paw to cover the spike when walking on tarmac or asphalt.

    The only other equipment you need is loose, comfortable clothing and a comfortable pair of shoes with good support under the heel and across the front of the foot. Sports shoes or boots designed for low level walking are usually well suited. You must be able to push off at the toes, so shoes should bend at the front and not on the arch of the foot.

    How Can I Benefit From Exercise

    What Exercise Is Good For Parkinson Disease

    Symptom Management

    Research has shown that exercise can improve gait, balance, tremor, flexibility, grip strength and motor coordination. Exercise such as treadmill training and biking have all been shown to benefit, along with Tai Chi and yoga. So far, studies have shown:

    • Engaging in any level of physical activity is beneficial, rather than being sedentary this is associated with improved motor symptoms.
    • For people with mild to moderate PD, targeted exercises can address specific symptoms for example: aerobic exercise improves fitness, walking exercises assist in gait, resistance training strengthens muscles. One study showed that twice-a-week tango dancing classes helped people with PD improve motor symptoms, balance and walking speed.
    • Exercise may also improve cognition, depression and fatigue, but the research is still ongoing in these areas.

    One study showed that people with PD who exercised regularly for 2.5 hours a week had a smaller decline in mobility and quality of life over two years. Research is ongoing to discover therapies that will change the course of the disease.

    Neurologists within the Parkinsons Foundation Center of Excellence network recommend a regimented exercise program to their patients and also to people who are worried about getting PD due to family connection.

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    How Can Someone With Parkinsons Benefit From Exercise

    The number one benefit of exercise for someone with a Parkinsons diagnosis is symptom management. Studies have shown that rather than being sedentary, engaging in any level of physical activity can be beneficial. Certain activities can address specific Parkinsons disease symptoms, like performing walking exercises to help with gait. It has also been shown that increased mobility can lead to improvements in cognition and memory and reduce the risk of falls. Symptoms that lead to a Parkinsons diagnosis typically appear when the dopamine-producing neurons in the brain begin to deteriorate.

    Tips For Exercising Safely

    Before starting an exercise program, consult with your neurologist and primary care doctor about any health concerns and ask for recommendations, the Parkinsons Foundation advises.

    Ask your doctor to refer you to a physical therapist who knows about Parkinsons together, the two of you can identify any concerns and physical limitations you may have. Your exercise regimen should be targeted to address your symptoms and physical limitations.

    You should stop any exercise or stretch that causes pain, and take steps to prevent falls while exercising, such as:

    • If indoors, remove area or throw rugs
    • Work out in well-lit areas
    • Dont use rolling chairs
    • Work out with friends or buddies, particularly when performing outdoor activities
    • Stay hydrated
    • Avoid overexertion

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    Strength Training Helps Build Muscle Mass

    Strength training can involve lifting weights, using machines at the gym, using your own body weight for resistance, or even using common household items like a milk jug filled with sand, the Parkinsons Foundation notes. Your strength training should focus on the following muscle groups:

    • Core muscles
    • Arm muscles
    • Hands and wrists

    In general, strength training should be done two to three times per week, but scheduled so that youre not targeting the same muscles on consecutive days, as your muscles need to rest and recover, the foundation advises.

    As with stretching exercises, strength training can be performed while standing, sitting, or while on the ground.

    The Wisconsin Parkinson Association recommends several exercises to help strengthen your grip and improve your reach. Tasks such as handwriting and reaching for items on higher shelves can be a challenge for people with Parkinsons disease, and hand exercises can help minimize these issues.

    In general, resistance training helps build and maintain muscle mass, Subramanian says. The stronger you are, the more independent youll be.

    Moving For Better Balance

    Parkinsons Disease Exercises: Posture

    Publisher: Jamestown New York YMCA, May 1, 2013

    Cost: Free

    These two instructional videos — part I is 10 minutes and part II is 5 minutes — are taught by a Jamestown New York YMCA staff member using the “Moving for Better Balance” approach, an evidence-based fall prevention program.

    Publisher: Michael Weiss

    Cost: Free

    This 30-minute video is a personal account by Michael Weiss, a person with Parkinson’s. In it he shares stretches, breathing, and physical exercises he has compiled for himself. Exercise demonstration begins 8-minutes into the video and include toe lifts, leg swing, leg lift, knee circles, hip circles, squats, arm stretches, arm twists, shoulder stretches, chair push-ups, bicycle legs, toe touches, chopping wood, conducting, dancing, and facial exercises.

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    When Should Someone With Parkinsons Start Exercising

    After youve been diagnosed with Parkinsons, try to start an exercise regimen as soon as possible, says the Parkinsons Foundation. The foundation calls this the pre-habilitation stage, and warns against waiting until you start to have pain or problems with your movements to begin an exercise regimen.

    Still, its never too late to start. People who have advanced Parkinsons and exercise have better health-related quality of life than people who dont exercise, so its important to stay active and even try new routines as your condition progresses.

    There are so many benefits to exercise with Parkinsons disease, Subramanian says. In addition to all the positive effects on symptoms and progression, there are other benefits as well, including social ones, if you work out as part of a group. Exercising will also likely help you to sleep better, which is important for overall health.

    Really, she continues, the more physical activity the better, as long as youre safe. And if youre worried about staying motivated, a general rule is that any exercise that you love is something youre going to keep doing.

    Dont hesitate to try different things, too, which will challenge your brain and your body. Youll see the positives right away, she says.

    Should I Talk To My Healthcare Provider Before I Start Exercising If I Have Parksinson’s Disease

    Talk to your neurologist and your primary care provider before starting a new exercise regimen. They can:

    • Counsel you on how intense your exercises can be.
    • Recommend exercises appropriate for your individual health.
    • Refer you to a physical therapist to create a personal exercise program.
    • Warn about exercises to avoid based on your particular challenges or limitations.

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    Can Exercise Replace Parkinsons Medication

    Exercise is just as important as the medication you take for Parkinsons but its not a replacement. Some people are able to decrease their medications because they can manage symptoms with exercise, but others need more medication in order to exercise. To get the most benefit, work with your doctor to make sure youre on the best combination of medications to control your symptoms so you can exercise regularly.

    Best Physical And Occupational Therapy Exercises

    What Exercise Is Good For Parkinson Disease

    Physical therapy exercises target your areas of concern. They can help develop your strength, balance, and coordination. Youll also enhance your functional mobility by improving concentration, flexibility, and range of motion.

    Occupational therapy exercises are intended to help you perform daily activities related to work, school, or home with greater ease.

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    They Tailor Exercises To You

    Kinesiologists can develop a one-on-one personal training program with exercises tailored to your needs, advice that will motivate you, personal support, and rigorous follow-up.

    Watch an excerpt of an individual training session at home:

    An example of a home service from the kinesiologists at Neuromotrix. These services are available in Montreal, Laval, South Shore, Lanaudière and Laurentides regions.

    Boxingcan Give You A Mental And Physical Workout

    Yes, boxing can be a fun and beneficial type of exercise for Parkinsons disease, according to the Parkinsons Foundation. However, your boxing routine should be noncontact and performed in a safe and proper setting.

    Boxing is a workout that combines aerobic activity, strength training, balance movements, and agility exercise all in one. Plus, it also provides a mental workout, challenging both the body and the brain, the foundation adds.

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    They Can Host Virtual Training Sessions

    If the COVID-19 pandemic has taught us anything, its that participating in virtual events can be just as effective as being there in person. Training sessions with kinesiologists are no different. Some kinesiologists can host a training session through videoconference, so you dont even have to leave the comfort of your home.

    Virtual training sessions still allow group participation for those who are more motivated to exercise as a social activity. And, of course, here in Canada, its important to support both Anglophone and Francophone groups.

    Virtual group training session for neuro balance.Virtual group training session for neuro flexibility.Virtual group training session for chair exercises.Virtual group training session for neuro intensity.Virtual group training session for neuro strength.

    How Exercise Helps With Parkinsons Symptom Management

    Parkinsons Disease Exercises: Leg Strength

    In general, the Parkinsons Foundation says, exercise helps improve gait, balance, flexibility, and grip strength while reducing tremors. A review of existing research published in the August 2016 edition of the journal Frontiers in Medicine found that exercise may also improve cognition, while reducing depression and fatigue.

    Recommended Reading: Parkinson’s Symptom Tracker App

    Types Of Exercise Suitable For Parkinsons Disease Patients

    If you have Parkinsons disease, there are a lot of health benefits that come along with exercise. Staying active can help you sleep, strengthen your muscles and joints, reduce stress and depression, and improve posture, balance, and gait.

    But what sort of exercise should you do? The types of exercise you choose will depend, to some degree, on the severity of your Parkinsons disease and your overall health. According to the Parkinsons Disease Clinic and Research Center at the University of California, the exercises should be varied and incorporate changing directions through unplanned movement, cardiovascular exercise, balance, strength training and rhythmical exercises.

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    Unplanned and Random MovementThe exercises listed require the person to change tempo and direction regularly. These will challenge a person mentally as well as physically as they require concentration to perform.

    • Walking, hiking or jogging
    • Racket sports such as badminton, table tennis, squash
    • Yoga or Tai Chi
    • Swimming in different strokes

    What Type Of Exercise Should I Do If I Have Parkinson’s Disease

    Exercise is a planned, structured, repetitive activity that is intended to improve physical fitness. There is no right exercise for people with Parkinsons. Everyones regimen will differ, depending on overall health, symptoms and previous level of activity. Any exercise helps, and a variety of exercise types may provide well-rounded benefits.

    Aerobic exercise

    Aerobic exercise involves activities that challenge your cardiorespiratory system such as walking, biking, running, and activities in the pool. Participating in aerobic exercise at least three days a week for 30-40 minutes may slow Parkinsons decline.

    Strength training

    Strength training involves using your body weight or other tools to build muscle mass and strength. Strength training two days per week, starting with low repetition and weight, may be beneficial in Parkinsons disease. A focus on extensor muscles, or muscles in the back of the body, can help with posture.

    Flexibility training

    Stretching two or more days per week can be beneficial to maintain range of motion and posture. Holding each stretch of major muscle groups for 30 to 60 seconds can improve muscle length.

    Balance and agility training

    This type of training often combines aerobic exercise, strength training, and flexibility training. Examples include:

    • Dancing.
    • Tai chi, yoga or Pilates.

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    Which Types Of Exercise Are Best For Parkinsons

    It is important to state upfront that there is no one best type of exercise for people with PD. It is most important to choose an exercise regimen that you enjoy, and will continue to do.

    However, beyond doing exercise that you will stick with, there are some additional concepts to consider when designing an exercise program for someone with PD.

    What To Keep In Mind While Starting To Exercise In Parkinsons Disease

    Pin on Fitness Training 101

    Have Hope: The patient should not lose hope and be upset if he cannot perform as well as he might think at first. Specifically if the patient wasnt into much of physical exercise prior the diagnosis of Parkinsons disease it may take quite some time to build endurance and stamina required.

    One Step at a Time: The patient should start with shorter periods of exercise to build up the endurance.

    Communication: It is important to open up to the doctor and the physical therapist or PT and be honest with them. If a certain posture or a particular type of exercise feels unnatural or too difficult, the patient should inform the therapist for a revised version of the exercise. If the patient is not honest, it may happen so that the symptoms of Parkinsons may increase.

    Exercise in a Safe Environment: It should be made sure that the patient exercises in a safe environment. The patient may feel that exercising at home may be convenient, but it is not a safe option. There may be a possibility of tripping over slippery surfaces or carpets and rugs. Once the patient hurts himself, it may become an issue of emergency.

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    Important Things To Focus On In Your Parkinsons Exercise

    Patients with Parkinsons disease usually find it difficult to be independent in daily activities of living. However, self-exercise is one of the best ways they can improve and train their body to reach a good level of independence in their daily life. Here are 10 wonderful exercises for individuals with Parkinsons disease that target range of activities.

    1. Maintaining your balance

    To maintain balance, patients of Parkinsons disease can practice swinging both arms while walking. This will lessen fatigue and loosen the arms and shoulders. Furthermore, walking while changing the speed of your gait from fast to slow from one destination to another is a good technique for improving your balance. Using a chair as a support, you can also do leg lifts to the front and side, making sure that your back stays straight and your spine remains in a neutral position.

    2. Walking

    The best exercise to improve your walking in Parkinsons disease is toes up! The rule is to stride forward, striking the heel and rolling the foot as you transfer weight forward to the toe. This is a good way to avoid commonly occurring calf cramps or freezing, making the lower leg active. In addition, always practice walking briskly, with both arms helping to elevate the strides. To aid balance, legs should always be further apart while walking.

    3. Sitting and standing
    4. Posture and tight muscles
    5. Fine motor skill: Working the hands and fingers for everyday tasks
    6. Facial exercises
    7. Voice exercises

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