Interesting article, Maria. Thank you for bringing it to our attention. I followed up on the statement that rigorous research has not yet been done on the effects of exercise on Parkinson’s Disease. It appears that research studies are now being done on the effects of exercise on Parkinson’s Disease and there is evidence that physical exercise increases Neuroplasticity in the brain. It isn’t clear if it increases the amount of dopamine in the brain. Also, not clear is whether some forms of exercise are more beneficial than other forms of exercise or are better at targeting specific symptoms. I am not a researcher, but if I had to guess, I would think that just as Parkinson’s patients may have very different symptoms, the benefits of exercise may also be individualized. If you like a particular form of exercise you will do it, and if you hate it, you won’t. Some of the benefits may be difficult to measure. For example, I enjoy playing pickle ball although I can’t say I am good at it. I think it provides social benefits, increased spacial awareness, and improved hand/eye coordination. I have no idea if it is slowing the progression of the disease and I don’t rely on it as my only form of exercise. I think engaging in different forms of exercise is like an insurance policy or hedging your bets. Until researchers determine which type of exercise provides the most benefit in the least amount of time, I’m going to engage in several different types and hope at least one of them works.

http://www.sparx3pd.com/

This was the trial link. Maybe someone on the site has participated in previous trials or knows more about it. I noticed there is a Canadian site as well as several sites in the US.

Wow, I’ve just finished the reading of this article. It is really amazing to learn of the early origins of medications, surgical treatments that were abandoned once levadopa was found to have such profound benefits. Also, the use of cannabis and the observations of its earlier use.

Exercise- this seems to be a common thread in so much of what I have read, responses from those w PD and just from what I have seen in my father and husband. There is a trial/study maybe others too, looking for participation in a moderate and rigorous exercise program so the effects of exercise can be more closely studied as a well established way to slow progression.

If I can find the trial, I will come back to link it for anyone who may have interest.

Thank you so much for everything you post. You have a gift for sharing knowledge. ❤️

As always Susan. I agree with you and think you are spot on with your insights on exercise. I have found studies that confirm that exercise increases dopamine but just how 'happy' that makes us I'm sure is person specific. Personally, stretching and flexing is my favorite past time and the time immediately is my most productive time.
I'm using the walking software at least 1 per day and am focusing on exercises that build strength, balance and stability. I don't know what physical changes are happening as a result but I do know I always feel better after spending time doing them.
Hoping you are doing well and thrilled you enjoy pickle ball. And, thanks for sharing.
Maria

There are very good articles out there pd has been around for years people like my grandfather had it I know he had the same symptoms I have but they didn't know much in the 50s and 60s