Parkinson's disease (PD) ranks second among age-related neurodegenerative disorders in the US, with an estimated 50,000 people diagnosed annually. The illness primarily affects the central nervous system - particularly the motor system - and is characterized by a progressive loss of dopamine-producing cells in a region of the brain called the substantia nigra, which is responsible for controlling movement.
Patients often experience physical tremors, muscle rigidity, difficulty maintaining balance, and gait alterations like a shuffling walk. But according to an article published by Science Advances, intensive physical activity is a non-pharmaceutical option to "improve motor functions" in early-stage PD.
On 14 July 2023, an investigatory team led by neuroscientist Dr. Gioia Marino reported, "treadmill improves motor deficits by reducing the loss of dopamine neurons in the substantia nigra” in rodents during clinical trials. There is no cure for Parkinson's; therefore, treatments aim to improve the quality of life and manage the symptoms of the disease.
Marino and company believe that research could be more robust to understand the relationship between exercise and neuroplasticity fully. The latter describes the brain's ability to change through the growth and reorganization of neural networks based on intrinsic and extrinsic stimuli. For instance, activity-dependent plasticity can significantly affect learning, memory, and recovery from traumatic brain injuries.
Marino said, "This study reported that exercise also improves cognitive performance control and reduces brain atrophy. Thus the authors hypothesized that aerobic exercise stimulates functional and structural neuroplasticity in both motor and cognitive brain networks in PD."
The current symptomatic treatment options for Parkinson's range from oral tablets and dermal patches to subcutaneous injections and intestinal infusions. Researchers assert that adding physical activity to the list of therapeutic prospects may help alleviate symptoms, slow disease progression and delay the onset of more severe hallmark features.
Healthcare experts agree that routine exercise boosts overall well-being and quality of life for individuals with PD. A sound fitness regimen improves energy reserves, reduces fatigue, and enhances self-esteem, contributing to a more fulfilling and active lifestyle.
It's important to note that Parkinson's disease symptoms vary widely among reported cases. Thus, a personalized exercise program developed in consultation with healthcare professionals can be particularly beneficial. For instance, physical therapists will thoroughly evaluate the patient's functional abilities, strength, balance, posture, and gait. Based on the assessment results, she will develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to the specific needs of the individual.
Dr. Marino maintained, "For a more comprehensive understanding of the effects of intensive exercise, future experiments should investigate the functional and structural effects of spontaneous motor activity." The clinical ramifications provide a springboard for testing the physical activity theory in human patients diagnosed with PD while highlighting cost-effective, common-sense treatment options.
I know someone with Parkinson's...
0%A) True
0%B) False
0%C) I'd rather not say
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