 |
 |
Dear Theresa Yes you would be wise to have your mother referred to a physiotherapist for an assessment so that a program can be designed to improve her strength and flexibility and prevent falls. I attach two comments on exercise. The first is the view of people with Parkinsons. The second is an eminent MD. I quote from a masters thesis based on our Parkinson exercise class -participants aged 55 to 79 yrs. " Initial discussions with participants in the program indicated that they felt some temporary relief of one of the major symptoms of the illness, ridgity. They indicated an improvement in their ability to extend their limbs and manoeuvre about obstacles in a room. They were able to dress themselves with greater efficiency, get into and out of a car by themselves and exercise more independence in all aspects of their lives. Many felt that the key to avoiding total incapacitation was to maintain a regime of regular exercise. Patients felt some consolation at not having to rely so heavily on others to accomplish routine tasks. " In his book "Parkinson's Disease: A Guide for Patient and Family" Dr Roger Duvoisin comments on physical activity for people with Parkinsons: "Activity is necessary to maintain the body's musculature............... Unused muscles quickly atrophy.......Exercise also improves the heart and circulation...........Physically active people have less trouble with constipation.............A patient who remains active is better able to cope with the various symptoms of Parkinson's as the years go by." go for it A Rutherford [log in to unmask]