Parkinson’s disease is a chronic neurodegenerative condition that affects millions of people worldwide. This disease, characterized by the progressive loss of nerve cells in the brain, leads to symptoms such as muscle rigidity, slowness of movement, and balance difficulties.
Although there is no definitive cure for Parkinson’s, numerous studies have shown that physical exercise can play a fundamental role in improving patients’ quality of life.
In this article, we will explore the benefits of physical exercise for people with Parkinson’s and provide practical advice for integrating physical activity into daily management of the disease.
The benefits of physical exercise
Regular physical exercise offers numerous advantages for people with Parkinson’s disease. Scientific studies have shown that physical activity can help slow the progression of motor symptoms and maintain better physical condition compared to the absence of exercise.
One of the main benefits is the improvement of muscle strength, which is reduced by problems caused by Parkinson’s such as rigidity and slowness of movements, leading to decreased physical activity. This reduction in activity can further compromise movement ability and overall disease symptoms. Targeted exercises help strengthen muscles, thus improving the ability to perform basic movements like getting up from a chair or climbing stairs.
Stretching exercises can also help maintain or even improve joint mobility in some cases, reducing the muscle rigidity typical of Parkinson’s, which not only facilitates daily movements but can also reduce pain caused by rigidity.
Physical exercise also has a positive effect on coordination and balance: activities such as dancing or ping pong require controlled and precise movements, which can improve balance and reduce the risk of falls, one of the major dangers for patients with Parkinson’s.
Recommended types of exercises
Not all exercises are equally effective for people with Parkinson’s. It is important to choose activities that are safe and have a positive impact on the specific symptoms of the disease.
Walking, swimming, and cycling are particularly useful aerobic exercises for improving cardiovascular endurance and general mobility.
Resistance exercises, such as pilates or aquagym, can help strengthen muscles and improve posture, which are common issues in patients with Parkinson’s. Strengthening muscles through resistance exercises can significantly improve the ability to perform daily activities.
Finally, activities that help develop balance and coordination, such as tai chi and yoga, are highly recommended as they can reduce the risk of falls and improve stability. Tai chi, in particular, has been shown to be effective in improving balance and stability thanks to its slow and controlled movements. Yoga, in addition to improving balance, can also reduce stress and enhance mental well-being.
Frequency and intensity of training
The frequency and intensity of training are crucial aspects for maximizing the benefits of physical exercise in people with Parkinson’s. It is recommended to exercise two or three times a week, and it is useful to take daily walks. The combination of different types of exercises should be adapted to the individual capacities of the patient, taking into account the progression of the disease and any physical limitations. Engaging in strenuous exercise every day is not recommended because the body needs time to recover after exertion.
The intensity of the exercise should be moderate, and it is essential to listen to your body and take breaks when necessary, maintaining a balance between activity and rest. For example, too intense a workout could lead to excessive fatigue, aggravating Parkinson’s symptoms rather than alleviating them.
Alternating between different types of activities can also help maintain motivation and avoid boredom. The assistance of a physical therapist or trainer can help create a personalized exercise program based on the patient’s specific needs and abilities.
Gondola AMPS Therapy
Gondola AMPS (Automated Mechanical Peripheral Stimulation) is an effective therapy for improving the motor symptoms of Parkinson’s disease, thus facilitating daily exercise. This therapy involves the application of stimuli to two precise points on both feet using a CE-certified medical device. Thanks to the therapy, functional connectivity in brain areas involved in movement management increases. The benefits obtained are very evident in walking, balance, and muscle rigidity, and there is also a reduction in freezing of gait.
The effects of Gondola AMPS therapy include an improvement in walking fluidity and a reduction in the rigidity and slowness of movements typical of Parkinson’s. These benefits help make daily physical activities and exercise safer and more manageable.
Additionally, Gondola AMPS therapy contributes to reducing the risk of falls and helps increase patients’ confidence in managing their movements.
Incorporating Gondola AMPS into Parkinson’s treatment can thus offer tangible benefits, allowing patients to make the most of the benefits of physical exercise and, more generally, to maintain a level of activity and autonomy that benefits overall well-being.
The importance of medical support
It is also essential to remember that all therapeutic approaches should be part of a comprehensive approach to managing Parkinson’s disease, with the support of the treating neurologist. Consulting your doctor is essential to ensure that therapeutic and rehabilitative choices are appropriate for your health condition.
A multidisciplinary medical team, including physiotherapists, occupational therapists, and nutritionists, can offer comprehensive and personalized support, optimizing the benefits of physical exercise and improving the patient’s overall quality of life. For example, a physiotherapist can provide specific exercises to improve mobility and reduce pain, while a nutritionist can recommend a balanced diet that supports physical activity and overall health.
In conclusion, physical exercise represents a vital component in managing Parkinson’s disease. With a mindful and supported approach, patients can experience significant improvements in symptoms and quality of life, maintaining independence and well-being for as long as possible.
