Intense and rigorous exercise may help slow the progression of Parkinson’s disease, according to a recent study published in the journal Science Advances.

The neuroscientists behind the study found that intensive exercise reduces both the motor and cognitive symptoms associated with Parkinson’s in a rodent model. This research sheds light on the potential benefits of exercise for individuals living with Parkinson’s and emphasizes the importance of maintaining an active lifestyle that includes aerobic physical activity. While there is currently no cure for Parkinson’s disease, these findings provide hope for non-pharmaceutical approaches to managing symptoms and potentially slowing the progression of the condition.

The Bottom Line:

Intense exercise has been shown to reduce Parkinson’s symptoms and may help slow the progression of the disease, according to a recent study. Encouraging individuals living with Parkinson’s to engage in regular aerobic exercise could have significant benefits for their motor and cognitive health.

Understanding the Benefits of Exercise for Parkinson’s Disease:

The new study aimed to investigate the impact of rigorous physical activity on the brain changes associated with Parkinson’s disease. Researchers used a rodent model to observe how intensive exercise affected the preservation and spread of Parkinson’s disease-causing aggregates, which are known to damage neurons responsible for transmitting signals in the body. They found that exercise resulted in a reduction in these aggregates, suggesting that exercise could have a lasting benefit and potentially slow the progression of the disease. In addition to reducing the spread of aggregates, exercise has been shown to improve movement, slow disease progression, enhance quality of life, and promote better sleep for individuals with Parkinson’s.

The Importance of Regular Exercise:

While the study focused on intense exercise for approximately four weeks, researchers believe that constant exercise may not always be necessary to experience the benefits. They found that the positive effects of exercise on synaptic plasticity, which is crucial for maintaining the connections between neurons in the brain, lasted for at least a week after the interruption of motor activity. Brief interruptions in exercise did not seem to change the benefits, but longer periods of inactivity could impact the benefits of exercise. This highlights the importance of maintaining a regular exercise routine for individuals living with Parkinson’s.

A Multifaceted Approach to Parkinson’s Disease:

Currently, most therapies for Parkinson’s disease are based on symptomatic care, meaning they aim to manage the symptoms rather than alter the course of the condition. Medications and non-pharmaceutical approaches, such as exercise, can be combined to help control symptoms and reduce disease progression. While exercise is beneficial for individuals with Parkinson’s, it is just one element of a multifaceted approach, which should also include adequate sleep, hydration, and a balanced diet. Working closely with healthcare professionals to develop a comprehensive treatment plan is important for managing Parkinson’s disease effectively.

Key Points:

– Intense and rigorous exercise may help slow the progression of Parkinson’s disease.
– In a recent study, intensive exercise reduced motor and cognitive symptoms in a rodent model of Parkinson’s.
– Exercise has been shown to reduce the spread of Parkinson’s-causing aggregates, improve movement, slow disease progression, enhance quality of life, and promote better sleep.
– Constant exercise may not be necessary to experience the benefits, but maintaining a regular exercise routine is crucial.
– A multifaceted approach that includes exercise, medication, and other non-pharmaceutical measures is recommended for managing Parkinson’s.
– Individuals with Parkinson’s should work closely with their healthcare team to develop a comprehensive treatment plan that includes exercise.

Source Article: https://www.healthline.com/health-news/intense-exercise-may-slow-parkinsons-disease-symptoms