A new study from the University of Michigan shows that everyday physical activity is linked with less severe motor symptoms in Parkinson’s patients. The good news is the activity doesn’t have to include vigorous exercise. Taking your dog for a walk, working in the garden, or going grocery shopping are great examples of ways to increase daily activity.

 

The research included 48 people with Parkinson’s disease, most of whom had moderate severity of symptoms. Those who took part in daily physical activity had less severe motor symptoms. These participants showed the greatest improvement in gait speed and balance. Consult with your healthcare professional about the best physical activity routine for you and your specific symptoms.

 

Source: Snider J, Muller M, Kotagal V, et al. Non-exercise physical activity attenuates motor symptoms in Parkinson disease independent from nigrostriatal degeneration. Parkinsonism Relat Disord, 2015; 21(10): 1227-1231.