Nordic walking can
be beneficial for a wide range of conditions, including Parkinson’s. It can help improve fitness in the same way
that running does, but it is much kinder to the ankles, knees and hips as it
has a much lower impact upon the joints, which can be particularly attractive
to anyone who suffers with joint pain.
In addition to
the benefits previously listed, perhaps the most important advantage of
Nordic walking for those with Parkinson’s is that is allows them to maintain
and develop the ability to walk well by:
- enhancing
balance and coordination
- reducing
bradykinesia
- reducing
freezing
- improving
mobility and creating more fluid movements
- correcting
the posture, particularly the typical stooped position associated with
Parkinson’s
- reinforcing
the alternating movements of the arms and legs which can be lost in Parkinson’s
and so improve stability
- boosting
independence and quality of life.
Various
studies of people with Parkinson's 1,2 have
indicated that those who participate in Nordic walking programmes have improved
functional independence and quality of life. Additionally, it provided a safe,
enjoyable and effective way to reduce physical inactivity, whilst increasing
mobility. Further studies are aiming to confirm these findings.
Furthermore, through
a study in Budapest at the Budapest United
Rehabilitation Centre of Szent István and the Szent László Hospital, it has been found that once the basic steps
have been learnt each individual can tailor their own programme to suit how
they feel at any particular time, varying it from day-to-day as required.
Moreover, walking in a group has a positive psychological effect which is
invaluable to those participating, giving them an improved sense of
wellbeing.
The
benefits to carers and family members can be as wide ranging as:
- toning the back, chest, arms and legs
- relieving tension in the neck and
shoulders
- strengthening the spine and reducing
back pain
- reducing symptoms of RSI (repetitive
strain injury)
- reducing the load on the knees, hips and
ankles
- combating the effects of osteoporosis
- assisting with conditions such as
whiplash, fibromyalgia, obesity, diabetes, rheumatism and MS.
