Parkinson’s: Most forms of exercise equally helpful in managing symptoms

Researchers looked at 156 randomized controlled trials which compared the
benefits of engaging in one type of physical exercise for adults with
Parkinson’s disease to another type of exercise, a control group, or both.
They observed that many types of exercise proved beneficial for people with
Parkinson’s compared to no exercise.
Researchers found little evidence that certain types of exercises work
better than others.
Specific motor symptoms may be most effectively treated with programs
designed specifically for Parkinson’s patients.
Parkinson’s disease is the second most common neurodegenerative disease
after Alzheimer’s disease, according to the Parkinson’s Foundation, a
nonprofit organization that funds research and provides educational
resources about the condition.Experts are not sure what causes Parkinson’s. However, many believe a
combination of genetic and environmental factors may be to blame.The brains of people with Parkinson’s often exhibit a loss of dopaminergic
neurons— dopamine-synthesizing brain cells — in an area of the brain known
as the substantia nigra.

In a recent study, researchers found about 90,000 Americans aged 65 years
or older receive a diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease each year. This
represents a 50% increase from previously held estimates.

Common symptoms of Parkinson’s include:

tremors, slow movement, limb stiffness
gait and balance problems.