People with early stages of Parkinson’s will be able to perform normal daily activities. However, there may be signs of a loss in the range of joint movement, decreased muscle strength and reduced aerobic capacity.
These limitations can lead to musculoskeletal changes that contribute to poor posture, joint pain and reduced cardiovascular fitness. If left untreated, or treated only once the musculoskeletal changes are established, these limitations can become a major cause of disability – sometimes more disabling than Parkinson’s itself.
At this stage, physiotherapy will concentrate on motor-rehabilitation to help maintain functional abilities and avoid physical inactivity and disuse (which can cause problems later), plus balance training to prevent falls.
An exercise programme will be tailored to the patient’s individual needs and lifestyle. Many of the exercises will be familiar as standard fitness training, but the programme will have been developed with a constant emphasis on counteracting Parkinson’s problems. It may include:
- flexibility and strength exercises for the trunk and extremities to improve balance control, gait, transfers and hand dexterity
- training for respiratory function and cardiovascular fitness
- activities such as cycling and walking
- exercises for facial expression
- relaxation techniques.
See www.parkinson-italia.info/e_gym_uk for examples of exercises produced by the Italian Parkinson’s Association – currently available in English, Italian, Portuguese and Spanish with other languages in preparation. Wherever possible, you should seek advice from a physiotherapist before following this or any other exercise programme to ensure it is suitable for your individual needs.
