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The Ultimate Medicine For Parkinson’s

New research indicates that both moderate and high-intensity exercise can alleviate symptoms of Parkinson’s disease, particularly fatigue. Dr. Philip Millar, the study’s lead author, pointed out that many individuals with Parkinson’s often feel overwhelmed by shame or depression, which can lead them to avoid physical activity. This is detrimental, as ceasing exercise can result in a loss of physical function.

To assess the impact of exercise, Millar and his team at the University of Guelph in Ontario, Canada, conducted a study involving three groups of ten participants, all at different stages of Parkinson’s disease. Over 10 weeks, each group participated in gym sessions three times a week, engaging in either moderate or high-intensity workouts. Participants ranged in age from 45 to 79.

The researchers monitored various health metrics, including maximal oxygen consumption, fatigue levels, gait, balance, and motor symptoms. Millar noted that previous studies suggested high-intensity interval training could enhance walking distance for Parkinson’s patients, potentially due to improved stability rather than cardiorespiratory fitness—a factor that had not been thoroughly examined in relation to motor symptoms.

The findings revealed that exercise significantly improved oxygen capacity, with high-intensity training yielding greater benefits. Motor symptoms decreased by approximately 25%, and this reduction was consistent regardless of exercise intensity. Additionally, fatigue levels diminished over time, while gait, balance, and blood pressure showed no significant changes across different exercise regimens.

Published in the Journal of Applied Physiology, the results suggest that individuals with Parkinson’s can choose their preferred level of exercise without worrying about missing out on benefits. Millar emphasized the importance of these findings, stating that even a modest reduction in motor symptoms can greatly enhance quality of life. He advocates for greater awareness of exercise benefits for Parkinson’s patients, encouraging healthcare professionals and families to promote regular physical activity as an essential aspect of treatment, alongside medication.