The Role of Physical Therapy in the Management of Parkinson’s Disease

Canada has some of the highest rates of Parkinson’s Disease globally, and they are on the rise. Perhaps you or someone you know – a close friend or loved one, is currently navigating a Parkinson’s diagnosis. A diagnosis can feel overwhelming. There is a huge onslaught of new information to process, while at the same time needing to learn how to adapt life to manage symptoms.

We here at Vangool Wellness are here to help. All our physiotherapist practitioners have been certified through Parkinson Canada to provide care for individuals with a Parkinson’s diagnosis.

So, what can physical therapy do to help?

The management of Parkinson’s Disease is truly interdisciplinary – the team may include any combination of a physical therapist, doctor, PD specialist, pharmacist, or other health care professional. Being movement experts, physical therapists play an important role in:

Managing the physical symptoms associated with Parkinson’s Disease
Supporting exercise engagement – a first-line treatment for slowing disease progression
Improving quality of life and emotional well-being

If you or a loved one is currently living with a Parkinson’s diagnosis, our rehabilitation team here at Vangool Wellness would be happy to support you along your journey. Contact us here for more information or to book an assessment.

Understanding Parkinson’s Disease

Parkinsons Disease [PD] is a lifelong progressive neurological disease that affects an area of our brain that produces dopamine. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter involved in the regulation of our emotions, motivation, and coordinating movement in our bodies. As the disease progresses, we have less dopamine available in our brains which leads to greater difficulty with motor tasks as well as emotional regulation over time.

Parkinson’s Disease falls under the umbrella of Parkinsonism, which refers to brain conditions that cause movement-related effects in the body as described above. Other Parkinsonism conditions you may have heard of include Lewy Body Dementia or Multiple System Atrophy. Parkinson’s Disease is the most common of these brain conditions however, accounting for around 80%.

There are currently no diagnostic tests available (bloodwork, scans, etc.) to detect and diagnose PD. Because of this, early detection is rare and by the time a clinical diagnosis is made, changes in the brain have already occurred and symptoms are likely to be showing. In order to make a clinical diagnosis, an individual must present with 2 of the first 3 listed motor symptoms:

Tremor: shaking/trembling movements in the body, most commonly in the hands at rest
Rigidity: stiffness/tightness in muscles, inability to relax them
Akinesia/Bradykinesia: slowness of movement
Postural Instability: stooped posture, balance impairments, occurs later in PD

A common acronym used to remember the motor symptoms of PD is TRAP. Beyond the motor symptoms, there are a range of other impacts PD has on health that might not be visible and can vary between individuals. These can include speech difficulties, loss of taste/smell, depression & anxiety, apathy, gait changes, difficulty with decision making, bladder impacts, facial masking, and sleep difficulties to name a few. This highlights the importance to treat Parkinson’s Disease through a biopsychosocial lens, with care addressing the physical, emotional, and social aspects of our lives.

Who Does PD Affect?

Parkinson’s Disease is most commonly seen later in life, with a majority of cases occurring beyond 60 years of age. There are however a small number of juvenile PD cases that occur. PD is slightly more common in those assigned male at birth than in those assigned female at birth.

Management of Parkinson’s Disease

Treatment for Parkinson’s Disease will generally include medication, possibly surgery, and as mentioned earlier, exercise. With exercise being a first-line treatment for slowing the progression of Parkinson’s Disease, it is important to establish an exercise routine early on in the diagnosis. That’s where we come in. Physiotherapists have the capacity to support physical engagement in PD with a thorough physical assessment, individualized programming, emotional support, and recommendations of appropriate equipment or environmental modifications as the disease progresses.

In addition to exercise and physical activity helping to maintain/improve our mobility, balance, and flexibility, it also eases non-motor symptoms like depression & anxiety and disrupted sleep. But what type of exercise should be completed?

Exercise programs for those with Parkinson’s Disease should include the following key components:

Aerobic activity
Strength Training
Balance, Agility, and Multitasking
Flexibility

Physiotherapy Treatment

At Vangool Wellness we have a variety of treatment options available for those with a Parkinson’s Diagnosis which could include individual physiotherapy assessments & treatments (mobile care available), group or individual Physio-Yoga, and Chair Yoga. Each of these options can help with supporting exercise engagement from a whole-person approach. Feel free to call in for a 15 minute free phone consultation if you have any questions regarding treatment options.

Individual Assessment: includes a thorough history taking to understand all aspects of the diagnosis from the client perspective, followed by a physical assessment to determine which education and treatment approach is best suited to you.

Physio-Yoga: either individual or class-based with a focus on assessing/treating PD through the lens of yoga-therapy which incorporates elements of strength, balance, and flexibility. Individual modifications provided throughout the class.

Conclusion

Parkinson’s Disease affects many individuals globally and can have a significant impact on quality of life. With research showing that exercise is one of the best treatment options to improve quality of life from both a physical & emotional lens, it is important to initiate an exercise routine early on and consistently throughout the diagnosis.

It can be hard to know how to implement exercise, and you shouldn’t have to go about that process alone. Physiotherapists are experts in movement disorders and have the training and knowledge to promote safe and effective physical activity for those with Parkinson’s Disease.

If you or a loved one is navigating a Parkinson’s diagnosis, we can help. Book in for an assessment here, or call the clinic at 306.242.9355 for more information.

Yoga for Beginners: A Simple Guide

Embarking on a yoga journey can be a transformative experience that offers a wealth of benefits for your body and mind. If you’re new to yoga, the practice can seem intimidating, but there’s no need to worry. Regardless of your fitness level, flexibility, or age, yoga is an inclusive activity that encourages personal growth and wellness. Yoga for beginners lays the foundation for understanding basic postures and breathwork, which are essential for building a sustainable practice.

When you start practicing yoga, you’re joining a global community that values balance, health, and inner calm. Yoga is not just about complex poses; it’s also about connecting with yourself and fostering a sense of harmony. With consistent practice, you’ll notice improvements in your flexibility, strength, and stress levels.

To ensure a safe and enjoyable start, it’s important to learn proper alignment and the basics of each pose. Remember, yoga is a personal practice, and it is more about the journey than the destination. As you become more familiar with yoga, you’ll be able to delve deeper into its many layers and discover how it can positively impact all areas of your life.

Discovering Yoga

Embarking on your yoga journey opens up a new world blending physical postures, breath control, and mental discipline. Your path to understanding yoga will be enriched by exploring its vast history and the various styles it offers.

History and Philosophy

Yoga’s origins trace back over 5,000 years in ancient India. It was developed as a way to achieve harmony between the mind, body, and inner knowing. The philosophy of yoga is deeply connected with the practice of asanas (postures) and pranayama (breath control), aiming to unite your body, mind, and spirit.

The term “yoga” comes from the Sanskrit word “yuj,” which means to join or to yoke. This practice encourages a greater depth of awareness of the self. Cultivating a deeper relationship and sensation of the internal and external environments. In doing so, we may develop more compassion for the self and others. As a beginner, understanding this philosophy can deepen the meaning behind each asana and breath you take during your yoga practice.

Different Styles and Paths

As you dive into yoga, you’ll discover there’s a vast array of styles to explore:

Hatha: This is an umbrella term for the physical practices of yoga and often a gentle introduction to the basic yoga postures.
Vinyasa: A dynamic style that links movement and breath together in a dance-like sequence.
Yin: A slow-paced style where postures are held for longer periods, targeting deep connective tissues.
Ashtanga: A rigorous style of yoga that follows a specific sequence of postures and is similar to vinyasa yoga, in that it links every movement to a breath.
Power: A faster, higher-intensity practice that builds muscle strength and stamina.

Here’s a brief look at how they differ:

Style	Pace	Intensity Level	Focus
Hatha	Slow	Low	Postures and breathing
Vinyasa	Moderate to Fast	Variable	Flow and breath synchronization
Yin	Very Slow	Low	Deep tissue and relaxation
Ashtanga	Fast	High	Strength and endurance
Power	Fast	High	Muscle strength and stamina

Choosing a style depends on your personal preferences and fitness goals. Each style offers distinct benefits and challenges, and experimenting with different types can enhance your overall yoga experience. As a beginner, try starting with Hatha or Vinyasa to build your foundation before exploring other paths.

Getting Started with Yoga

Diving into yoga can be an enriching experience that nurtures your body and mind. The right class, essential equipment, and a clear intention will set the foundation for your practice.

Benefits of PhysioYoga

Choosing the right type or intensity of yoga can be difficult for beginners. One of the benefits of PhysioYoga is that it’s tailored to your individual needs and is guided by a physiotherapist, which makes it a safer way to learn about yoga.

Choosing the Right Class

When looking for yoga classes for beginners, prioritize those that focus on foundational poses, alignment, and breathwork. Smaller classes can offer more personalized guidance, ensuring you build a strong and safe yoga foundation.

Essential Equipment

A yoga mat is fundamental, serving as your personal space and providing the grip needed for poses. Consider investing in quality, non-slip mats for safety and comfort. Optional items include blocks, straps, and a blanket, which can aid in achieving correct postures and deeper relaxation.

Setting Intentions and Discipline

Setting a personal intention grounds your practice and steers it towards growth. Committing to a steady, yet flexible schedule—ideally 3 to 4 sessions per week—can significantly improve your strength, flexibility, and inner peace. Remember, consistency is key to deepening your discipline in yoga.

Fundamentals of Yoga Practice

Starting your yoga journey requires understanding the core elements that contribute to a fulfilling practice. Focus on flexibility and strength, paying attention to how your breath coordinates with movements, and properly aligning your body to reduce the risk of injury and enhance the benefits of each pose.

Basic Yoga Poses and Asanas

Mountain Pose (Tadasana): This foundational pose teaches you to stand with stability and awareness, engaging your thighs and aligning your spine.
Downward-Facing Dog: A staple asana that strengthens your arms and legs, while stretching the shoulders, hamstrings, and hands.
Warrior Pose: Builds lower body strength, opens your hips, and can help improve balance and concentration.
Bridge Pose: A gentle backbend that can strengthen the back muscles and reduce back pain, while opening the front of the body.
Corpse Pose (Savasana): Typically the final pose in a yoga session, promoting relaxation as your body assimilates the benefits of the practice.

Each yoga pose is an opportunity to explore the limits of your flexibility and strength. Remember, it’s not about how deep you go into a pose but how you maintain form and posture.

Understanding Form and Alignment

Form refers to the specific way each asana is executed, ensuring you’re receiving maximum benefit while minimizing injury. Key components of good form include:

Shoulders: Keep them relaxed and away from the ears to prevent tension.
Neck: Align your neck with the spine, avoiding unnecessary strain.
Spine: Seek a neutral position to protect and strengthen the spinal column.
Hips: Be aware of your hips’ positioning to maintain balance and joint health.
Head and Chest: A lifted chest and a neutral head position can help maintain a smooth flow of breath.

Alignment is crucial in connecting breath to movement, positioning your body to align joints and bones for optimal efficiency and safety during yoga poses. Proper alignment can be the difference between strengthening your body and potentially causing back pain or other discomfort. Utilize a mirror or ask an instructor to ensure your posture is correct, especially when practicing poses like Plank, Triangle, or Tree Pose. Remember, yoga is a personal practice, and honoring your body’s limits is key.

Enhancing Your Yoga Practice

To elevate your yoga experience and maximize benefits, focus on using props for support, advancing poses to deepen your practice, and establishing a personal ritual to enhance consistency and mindfulness.

Incorporating Yoga Props

Yoga props like blocks, straps, and bolsters can greatly enhance your range of motion and alignment. Use a block under your hand in a triangle pose to maintain balance, or a strap to extend your reach and safely hold a pose longer, allowing your muscles to gently stretch and gain flexibility.

Advancing Your Poses

Gradually increase the complexity of asanas to challenge your strength and balance. Begin with a stable base in poses like tree pose to cultivate your body awareness, then experiment with closing your eyes to amplify the challenge. The incremental changes in movement and pace can significantly improve your mobility and muscle strength.

Developing a Personal Ritual

Creating a personal ritual around your yoga practice fosters consistency and deepens your connection to the experience. Whether it’s setting intentions before each session or dedicating time for yoga therapy exercises, your ritual should cater to your individual needs, helping you to stay focused and grounded. This regular practice builds a strong foundation for both your body and mind.

Yoga for Beginners in Saskatoon

At Vangool Wellness, we offer PhysioYoga Classes for everyone including beginners. If you’re looking for a safe and effective way to learn about yoga, rehabilitate injuries, and prevent future issues, come visit our team.