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Hi Marling & Anne, Marling, you wrote...... > > Have any of you ever felt like a turtle?? Whenever I have the bad luck > to roll or fall onto my back, I am helpless. I cannot get up by myself > from this position, and worse than that is it becomes difficult to > breath the longer I stay on my back. > Does anyone have tricks or helps to keep one from becomming a turtle? > Anne's right, ya gotta practice rolling over. Exercise is the key to managing the immobility part of Parkinson's. Much as it may seem impossible to some to even think of starting to exercise, start you must, and once started then expand to a regular schedule. This doesn't have anything to do with "pumping iron" or "working out" or even using any exercise equipment. I'm talkin' basic stretches and walking, swimming, dancing, Tai Chi, all relatively gentle but sustained use of all your muscles. See a physiotherapist to start you off right. We all get far too stiff and rigidity sets in if we don't keep moving. In our case practice does not make us perfect but it can go a long way towards a level of confident independence, an improved level of well being, and a little self assurance that we can regain some mobility. Set aside a specific time every day and practice stretching and flexibility. Do not give up and I'm certain in a few weeks you will surprise yourself with new found abilities. I used to be able to run and run and run. 10k's, 1/2 marathons, no problem. Well I can't do that anymore. I get cramps in my feet, I limp, etc. That doesn't mean I can't do anything. I dance with my wife, I go for walks, I work, and I stretch and exercise every day so I can keep going. You can too! Marling we're with you, keep in touch and let us know how this works out. All the best.............Murray [log in to unmask]