Anxiety is one of the most common — and least discussed — Parkinson’s symptoms. Not only can anxiety result from the brain changes brought on by Parkinson’s, but worries about off-times, changing symptoms, as well as questions and fears about the future, can all lead to anxiety.
According to a 2014 study in Therapeutic Advances in Neurological Disorders, anxiety in people with Parkinson’s can exacerbate existing symptoms, as well as contribute to “significant impairments in areas of cognitive, functional, motor and social performance.” While feelings of anxiety should be a topic of conversation with your healthcare team, regular exercise can also help you manage everyday anxiety.
Research has shown that people with Parkinson’s who exercise between two and three hours a week may even slow the progression of Parkinson’s. A comprehensive exercise routine typically includes aerobic or cardiovascular activity to boost your heart rate, along with flexibility and stretching, both of which are especially important if you experience stiffness in the muscles that flex arms, shoulders, hips, knees and ankles. Your exercise routine should also include strength training, which helps fight fatigue and increases energy, balance and fine movement control. Weight-bearing exercises like walking or jogging increase endurance, strength and bone density.
We know that exercise helps overall health and wellness for everyone, but the benefits of exercise are more than just physical. A 2016 review in the Journal of Parkinson’s Disease confirmed that exercise could improve physical and mental health for people living with Parkinson’s. Investigators analyzed 106 studies conducted over the past 30 years to better understand the impact of exercise on people with Parkinson’s. In addition to increased balance, mobility and flexibility, exercise was shown to improve cognitive ability as well.
While exercise may not eliminate anxiety associated with Parkinson’s, it is a proven way to manage it. Find out how to get started, stay motivated and see results. For a range of workouts designed specifically for people with Parkinson’s, download and watch our Parkinson’s Exercise Essentials video.