Exercises for Parkinson's Disease by William Smith

Author:William Smith
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Hatherleigh Press
Published: 2019-09-22T16:00:00+00:00

PARKINSON’S FIT TIP: EXTENSION VS. FLEXION EXERCISES

Parkinson’s disease may result in a forward postural lean. During walking, this position may lead to gait compensations such as shuffling. One approach to counter this forward position is by using extension exercises for the upper and lower body. Upper body exercises include back extensions and rows; lower body exercises include hip bridges and stationary lunges.

CHAPTER 5

Rules of the Road:

Exercise Precautions

In the next chapter, you will find a series of exercises carefully selected to help people with Parkinson’s retain as much normal function as possible. These exercises target improved mobility, increased flexibility, and strength training. The exercises and accompanying programs are designed to be safe and effective for people in varying stages of Parkinson’s.

The programs outlined in Chapter 7 can be adapted to suit your unique needs and abilities. The best exercises are the ones that can be performed consistently over a number of years. In performing these exercises, you will be participating in a process called motor learning. In order to experience the benefits of physical activity, you must commit to regular exercise over an extended period of time.

It is important to remember that whenever you try something new, frustration is a natural part of the process. However, stress and frustration exacerbate the motor symptoms of Parkinson’s disease, so you must be patient as you learn new physical and mental exercises.

The first few weeks of the program are called the cognitive (or verbal) stage, during which you will be developing a general understanding of what to do and how to do it. This stage generally lasts 3–4 weeks.

During the second stage, the associative stage, you will be able to perform the movements, but there may be some errors or flaws in your form. This stage usually lasts anywhere from 2–3 weeks.

The final stage, the autonomous stage, is when you are able to perform the exercises with proper technique and can repeat sets and reps week after week.

EXERCISE ESSENTIALS CHECKLIST

Exercise Preparation

Exercise location: Is your environment safe, clean, and free from debris?

Proper footwear: Are you wearing proper athletic footwear?

Comfortable athletic wear: Do you have clothes that allow freedom of movement?

Hydration: Be sure to drink 6–8 glasses of water during the course of your day.

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