The National Institute of Clinical Excellence (NICE) has updated its guideline to recommend specialist physiotherapy for early-stage Parkinson’s, such as for individuals with balance problems and movement related problems.
Parkinson’s is a progressive neurological condition, which is caused by a lack of the chemical Dopamine in the brain.
There is currently no cure for Parkinson’s. We know that medication helps BUT NEUROLOGICAL PHYSIO & EXERCISE IS THE ONLY PROMISE FOR SLOWING PARKINSON’S DOWN CURRENTLY.
I recently went on a Parkinson’s Disease Warrior course which is an Australian founded programme that focuses on teaching physiotherapists the main problems that occur in mild Parkinson’s and what exercises can help to slow down the progression from the start. The course was focused on providing physiotherapy for individuals who do not necessarily have problems with their balance or who have had falls, but for people who might have one sided limbs affected or even both sides.
As our brain is able to rewire pathways and protect itself through the process of neuroplasticity and neuroprotection, individuals with early Parkinson’s are advised to carry out neuro-active exercises. In simple terms, this is exercise that is challenging physically and psychologically and is meaningful to one’s environment and life. These exercises can help improve the primary motor impairments of Parkinson’s, which includes: hypokinesia (small movements), bradykinesia (slow movements), tremors and rigidity or stiffness.