Tag: Parkinson’s

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April is Parkinson’s Awareness Month

I am glad we are having Parkinson’s disease Awareness Month.  Today, worldwide it is estimated there are seven to ten million of us with PD.  I am doing well in managing my PD. Hopefully with Rock Steady Boxing three times a week and walking six days a week the progress of my PD has slowed.  It has been two years since I was diagnosed with PD, and my doctor says I am doing well, and she has not increased my medications.  So, that is a good sign.  The Parkinson’s Foundation of Western Pennsylvania were recognizing Parkinson’s awareness month by giving away free tulips and PD awareness cards during lunch hour in Market Square here in Pittsburgh.  Rock Steady Boxing Clubs are holding special events in recognition of Parkinson’s awareness month.  The Michael J Fox Foundation has scheduled special events throughout many cities to recognize Parkinson’s awareness month and to raise donations for Parkinson’s research.  Click here to read about the latest breakthroughs in PD research.  We can all help by making donations to our favorite charities.   Another easy way to contribute is by using Amazon Smile and selecting your favorite Parkinson’s related organization. Find out more about Amazon Smile here.

 

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About Parkinson’s

Referenced information below is from APDA.
Parkinson’s disease is a chronic and progressive disorder of the central nervous system. It affects how your body moves and can also affect the way you think.  Approximately one million people in the USA have Parkinson’s.
Studies have shown that Parkinson’s patients who exercise regularly can improve gait, balance, tremor, flexibility, grip strength, and motor coordination.  It has been shown that the following exercises have proven to be beneficial to the Parkinson’s patients: Rock Steady Boxing, Tai Chi, Yoga, Cycling, and Walking.
The American Parkinson’s Disease Association has raised more than $170 million to provide outstanding patient services and educational programs to elevate public awareness about the disease, and support research designed to unlock the mysteries of Parkinson’s disease and ultimately to find a cure for this disease.
Click here to find out about Parkinson’s Foundation in Western Pennsylvania.  Or check in your local area for the local Parkinson’s Foundation.
Also, check out The Michael J. Fox Foundation.  His foundation has raised approximately $700 million for research in finding a cure for Parkinson’s.

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Walking

Aside from Rock Steady Boxing, walking is, and has always been, one of my favorite ways to exercise.  I go for a one hour daily walk six days a week.  I made this part of my morning routine.  I stretch for fifteen minutes, get ready, and go for my walk around eight AM.  Early morning walks are invigorating, especially during early cold winter days.  It is usually pretty quiet, only few people walking their dogs and a few school kids waiting for the bus.  It’s my time to focus on the day ahead, gather my thoughts, and now, think about what I’m going to write in my blog . Walking loosens up my legs, my feet, my arms, my back and my whole body.  I feel great after my walks.

Here is what University of Florida Health (UF College of Medicine) said about waking:

“Walking is an excellent exercise for people with Parkinson’s disease. First and foremost, it gets you outside and in the community! Walking can also be a great group activity to do with friends and family, or maybe it is just an opportunity to get outside and get some fresh air. In order to get more benefits from walking, make it purposeful: walk with BIG arm swings, heel strikes, and an upright posture. Practice balancing on different terrains and surfaces, and maintain balance when obstacles obstruct your path during your walk. Walk with an intention, but walk safely.”