Apr 11, 20222 min read

World Parkinson's Day

The red tulip with a white fringe officially became the symbol of Parkinson's disease in 2005 (1)
April 11th, 1755 Dr. James Parkison was born. The son of a surgeon and apothecary, he is known for his work "An essay on the shaking palsy" in 1817.(2)
Almost 60,000 Americans are diagnosed with Parkinson's disease every year (3)
10 million+ people worldwide live with Parkinson's disease (3)
Parkinson's disease is the 2nd (only to Alzheimer's) as most common neurodegenerative disease (4)

About Parkinson's disease:

" Is a neurodegenerative disorder that affects predominately dopamine-producing (“dopaminergic”) neurons in a specific area of the brain called substantia nigra" (5)

Common symptoms: tremors, mask-like face (bradykinesia), limb rigidity & gait or balance problems

The cause is unknown, there is no cure, and treatment varies

Training with Parkinson's:

Early intervention is critical s this is a chronic and progressive disorder
The goals of an exercise program should to reduce (a) rate that signs appear from progression , (b) presence of other medical conditions (comorbidities), as well as secondary complications from muscle disused; while improving the individuals ability to function and quality of life.
Exercises should aimed at improving ADL's (activities of daily living) & independence.

Considerations:

The individual's progressions and symptoms in relations to motor skill & cognitive abilities
Side effects from medications
Fall history
Enjoyment an preferences- when possible activities should be chosen that are enjoyable

Programming:

Emphasis on balance training, posture and mobility (range of motion and fluidity) with
Particular focus on neck flexibility, spinal mobility & movements promoting rotation
Utilizing stationary equipment to reduce the risk of falls
Strengthening the hips and trunk extensors for posture as well as consistent training of the lower body for maintenance of mobility

Activities:

Tai Chi
Dance programs (specifically Tango & Waltz are recommended by ACSM)
Programs that incorporate balance pads or discs, boss BOSU balls, stability balls , & the unstable devices (depending on the individuals ability and history)