HEALTH INSIGHTS

Exercise for Parkinson's Disease

February 23, 2018

Exercise for Parkinson's Disease

These exercises can help strengthen your muscles and keep them loose and flexible. Ask your healthcare provider whether they’re right for you. Your healthcare provider or physical therapist may also suggest other exercises.

Do the exercises once a day at first, then build up to several times a day. Exercise slowly, and rest if you feel pain.

 

Man sitting in chair doing body twist exercise.

Man sitting in chair doing seated march exercise.

Woman standing doing back stretch exercise.

Body twist

Seated march

Back stretch

Body twist

Follow these steps:

  • Sit in a chair, facing forward. Place your hands on your shoulders.

  • Turn your head and body to the side as far as possible, as if you were trying to look behind you.

  • Return to starting position, then turn to the other side.

  • Repeat 10 times.

Seated march

Follow these steps:

  • Sit in a chair, facing forward.

  • Slowly lift one knee as high as you can, then lower your foot to the floor.

  • Do the same with your other leg.

  • Repeat 10 times with each leg.

Back stretch

Follow these steps:

  • Stand or sit with your back straight.

  • Hold your arms in front of you. Put your hands and elbows together, hands pointing toward the ceiling.

  • Move your arms apart as far as possible, pushing your shoulder blades together.

  • Slowly move your hands back together.

  • Repeat 10 times.

Updated:  

February 23, 2018

Sources:  

Nonpharmacologic Management of Parkinson Disease, Up To Date

Reviewed By:  

Image reviewed by StayWell medical illustration team.,Sather, Rita, RN,Shelat, Amit, MD