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Making Good Choices When It Comes To A Parkinsons Disease Exercise Routine

By Amanda Barnes


In the United States, there are about a million cases of Parkinson's disease, and every year another sixty thousand are diagnosed worldwide. Scientists have made advances, but there is currently no cure for this debilitating condition. Medication is prescribed to relieve some of the symptoms, but the best way to maximize your ability to cope with the side effects is through a combination of the medication and a Parkinsons disease exercise routine.

Your doctor can work with you to tailor an activity regimen that suits the stage of your illness. It is important to discuss all your concerns and get answers to your questions before you start exercising at home on your own. Depending on your particular situation, you doctor will evaluate the types of exercises that will be most beneficial and the ones you should avoid. The amount of time you spend exercising and the amount of exertion you can safely expend will be determined by your overall condition.

Your complete workout may consist of sets of exercises and cardiovascular activities that last thirty minutes or so. In the beginning, you will probably find that you tire quickly and are unable to complete the full routine. You should not be discouraged or concerned. It may take a month or more before you can get through the entire routine. It is perfectly fine to work out for five to ten minutes and gradually extend your workout. Even if you only exercise for five minutes, warming up is still important.

One of the symptoms of Parkinson's, that is especially troubling for many sufferers, is the decreasing ability to create facial expressions and the dullness of speech that can occur. If this is something that concerns you, simple facial exercises are a good way to increase your expressiveness. You may not think of yourself as a great singer, but it doesn't matter. Singing out loud is good for your muscles.

Water aerobics are great for Parkinson's patients. The buoyancy of the water allows them to do exercises that would be impossible out of the water. While many, who love to swim, do laps in addition to the aerobics, it is not necessary to leave the shallow end of the pool to get the benefit of water exercises.

When you are exercising, safety should be a primary concern. Balance is an issue for many with the condition. If you have this problem, be sure to position yourself in an area of the room where you can grab a railing or other sturdy object to help you. Avoid, or move, things like throw rugs and make sure the room is well lit.

Regular exercising is something some people find they enjoy. Others would rather do anything else. In this instance, you should find another outlet that allows you to move and use your muscles. Some people love to garden or walk. Whatever you do, it should become a regular part of your weekly routine.

No one wants to get the news that they have Parkinson's. It can be a frightening and depressing diagnosis. Facing it with a positive attitude, finding the most effective medications, and exercising regularly will help you cope.




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