When someone is affected with Parkinson’s, one of the biggest issues is related to mobility. Parkinson’s affects the ability of a person to move around, and also impacts balance and other issues such as standing up or even sitting down.
In such a situation, exercise will not only help to keep the patient healthy overall, but will also strengthen the muscles and help maintain mobility, in addition to improving balance and other related issues.
Types Of Exercises That Can Benefit A Parkinson’s Patient
Remember that when you have Parkinson’s, the aim of exercising is to keep yourself physically active, instead of trying to do a lot and stress yourself out. Almost any type of physical activity that you do at this stage will benefit you in some way or the other, so you can choose what suits you best and also one that will keep you interested, so that you can continue with it for a long time at a stretch.
Here are some of the exercises that you can try:
- Dancing
- Cycling
- Swimming
- Walking
- Jogging
- Aerobics
- Water aerobics
- Gardening
- Yoga
- Simple weight training
- Pilates
Tips To Remember Before You Start Exercising
Before you begin your exercise regime, make sure to keep the following in mind:
- Speak to your doctor or your neurologist and inform them that you are planning to start exercising. Ask them what type of exercise they feel will suit your condition and overall health the best. If you have any particular exercise that you want to try, check on that with the doctor.
- In case you have not been in the habit of exercising till now, make sure you inform the doctor about the same as well. In some cases, your doctor may like to do a physical examination just to make sure that everything is right for you to start exercising, and that it will not have any adverse effects.
- In some cases, before your begin your exercise routine, your doctor may schedule you with a physiotherapist who is experienced in working with patients affected with Parkinson’s disease. This will help you get a feel of the exercises you have in mind. It will also help you check how your body responds to exercise and if there is any particular discomfort that you experience. Sometimes, the physiotherapist may modify certain exercises that will specifically work for your condition and for your overall health. At Care24, our physiotherapists are trained to work with patients who have Parkinson’s disease. You may book an appointment to know more.
- In case any exercise makes you feel uncomfortable or causes pain, speak to your doctor and physiotherapist about it and stop it for the time being. Do not try to exert yourself and push your limits, in the belief that it will benefit you. If it causes you any type of discomfort, it is important to discontinue and give your body time to rest and heal.
- Always do a proper check of your immediate environment to make sure that you will be safe while exercising, and that there is no risk of an injury or fall.
Speak to your doctor, take it slow, and make sure you follow your therapist’s advice and guidance as you exercise.
