Parkinson’s disease affects how the brain controls movement. People may notice shaking hands, stiffness, slow walking, or poor balance. These symptoms can get worse over time. While there is no cure, physiotherapy can help manage these problems.
So, does physiotherapy really help with Parkinson’s? The short answer is yes. But here’s why.
What Is Physiotherapy in Parkinson’s Disease?
Physiotherapy is a type of treatment that focuses on body movement. For Parkinson’s patients, it includes simple exercises to improve walking, posture, and balance. It also helps reduce stiffness and avoid falls.
A trained physiotherapist will guide the patient through a plan that fits their stage of Parkinson’s. The better the outcomes, the sooner they begin.
Why Movement Becomes Difficult
In Parkinson’s, the brain makes less dopamine. That chemical helps control body movement. Without it, muscles get stiff. The arms and legs may not swing properly. People walk slowly or drag their feet. These symptoms are known as motor symptoms of Parkinson’s.
Other common movement-related issues include:
- Freezing while walking
- Trouble turning
- Falling easily
- Weak posture
- These problems can make daily life harder. That’s where physiotherapy comes in.
How Physiotherapy Helps
Here’s what physiotherapy can do:
1. Improve Walking:
It teaches patients to take longer steps. This helps with speed and balance. Cueing strategies like walking to a rhythm or using floor markings can also help avoid freezing.
2. Prevent Falls:
Many Parkinson’s patients fall because of poor balance. Balance training exercises improve steadiness.
3. Reduce Stiffness:
Stretching exercises help loosen tight muscles. This can ease joint pain and make movements smoother.
4. Better Posture:
Patients with Parkinson’s tend to bend forward while standing or walking. Physiotherapy can correct posture and reduce back pain.
5. Increase Confidence:
Moving better helps people feel safer and more in control. This can lower anxiety and make them more active.
When to Start Physiotherapy?
Start early. Even if the symptoms are mild, early physiotherapy builds strength and prevents future problems. Waiting too long makes it harder to regain lost mobility.
How Often Should You Go?
That depends on the person. Some may need weekly sessions. Others may benefit from daily home exercises. A neurologist or a Parkinson’s treatment specialist in Delhi, like Dr. Natasha Kumar, can help guide the right plan.
Real-Life Example
Many people in Delhi who started physiotherapy early said they could move better, walk with less fear, and needed less help from others. One patient said, “My walking improved. I used to freeze, now I don’t.” That’s the kind of real impact physiotherapy can make.
Final Thought
Physiotherapy doesn’t cure Parkinson’s. But it helps you move better, feel safer, and stay active. And when it comes to Parkinson’s disease, staying active is one of the best ways to fight back.
If you or someone you know has Parkinson’s, talk to a doctor about starting physiotherapy. It may not fix everything, but it can help you live better.
