Living Well with Parkinson's: Exercise as Medicine
The concept of "exercise as medicine" has particular resonance in Parkinson's disease. Growing scientific evidence demonstrates that regular, intensive exercise does more than manage symptoms — it may actually slow disease progression by protecting dopamine-producing neurons and promoting brain health.
Several types of exercise have shown particular benefit in Parkinson's. Aerobic exercise at moderate to high intensity improves cardiovascular fitness, walking speed, and overall function. Studies suggest that high-intensity exercise may be neuroprotective, potentially slowing the loss of dopamine-producing cells. The Parkinson's Foundation recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week.
Skill-based exercises — activities that challenge motor control, balance, and coordination — address the specific movement problems of Parkinson's. These include dance (tango has shown particular benefit), boxing training (such as Rock Steady Boxing), tai chi (which improves balance and reduces falls), and table tennis. The cognitive demands of learning and performing complex movements may enhance neuroplasticity.
Strength training maintains the muscle power needed for posture, transfers, and walking. Particular attention should be paid to the muscles that counter the characteristic forward-flexed posture of Parkinson's — the back extensors, gluteals, and posterior shoulder muscles.
The key principles are: start early (exercise is beneficial from diagnosis), be consistent (daily exercise is better than occasional intense sessions), challenge yourself (exercise should feel moderately difficult), and enjoy it (activities you enjoy are more sustainable).
Our Parkinson's physiotherapy service designs personalised exercise programmes that incorporate these principles. Delivered at home, programmes are practical and sustainable. Our neurological physiotherapy service provides specialist support for complex cases, while our falls prevention programme addresses balance impairment as the condition progresses.