A Physiotherapist
is a healthcare professional who helps keep people moving and functioning as
much as possible. They will assess how the Parkinson’s affects your
movement, whether you’re newly diagnosed, or you’ve had the condition for some
time. This means they can help to keep up your fitness levels and
maintain good posture and balance as your condition progresses. This will
help you to remain independent as long as possible and also to help avoid
future issues. Evidence has shown that exercising and being physically
active is just as important as taking your medications for managing the
condition.
Guidance suggests
that people with Parkinson’s should be referred to Physiotherapy in the early
stages of the condition, for assessment, education, and advice, including
information about physical activity. Visit the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) website for further guidance.
Further information
about physiotherapy for people with Parkinson’s can be found on the Parkinson's website.
The Parkinson’s UK Exercise
framework can also be found on the Parkinson's website.