Movement as Medicine

What has been noted in medical literature is the importance of physical activity and movement. In their article, Grazina and Massano note that “It was observed in a cohort of males that those who engaged in regular vigorous physical activity or exercise have a 50% reduction in their chances of being diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease” While this is encouraging, the same authors go on to note that only 31.1% of all adults across the world, however, qualify as active. (“Physical Exercise and Parkinson’s Disease: Influence on symptoms, disease course, and prevention,” Rev. Neurosci,  2013: 24(2): 139-152, Rita Grazina, Joao Massano)

Movement is vital to health, even more so when addressing movement disorders. “Regular movement has a measurable effect on the signs and symptoms of the disease .. (it) Also improves dopamine levels” (“Effectiveness of tai chi for Parkinson’s Disease: A critical review,” Parkinsonism & Related Disorders, Vol 14 (2008) 589 – 594, Myeong Soo Lee, Paul Lam, Edzard Ernst)

Additionally, those with Parkinson’s disease who exercise regularly are shown to have superior gait velocity as compared to those who do not exercise regularly. There is a reduction in the rate of deterioration of motor skills, and a strong potential to reduce the risk of secondary dangers, such as falling. (“Multidimensional exercise of people with Parkinson’s disease: A case report,” Physiotherapy Theory and Practice, Vol 22(3): 153 – 162, 2006, Patricia Kluding, et. al.) 

While research is still very new in this area, there also seem to be indicator that exercise has neuro-protective or neuro-regenerative capabilities in addition to neuro-protective properties. (“Physical Exercise and Parkinson’s Disease: Influence on symptoms, disease course, and prevention,” Rev. Neurosci,  2013: 24(2): 139-152, Rita Grazina, Joao Massano)