The underlying ethos of my blog is that Parkinson's has it's lessons to teach me - and my circle of friends.
The poem "Smaller" reflects this and it is ironic, but no surprise, that I am now literally rewiring my brain to THINK BIG.
As you know people with PD usually have trouble moving normally. Movements are often slower and smaller and some people shuffle or freeze when they walk. Others experience falls and problems with their balance.
I suffer from a little of all of the above. Lately I have been doing a lot of Nordic walking which has been fantastic but it wasn't changing some of the fundamental problems caused by PD.
Then just 10 days ago I commenced LSVT® BIG - an intensive 1-on-1 exercise treatment program focused on BIGNESS of movement to improve range, speed and quality of life. The commitment is 1 hour a day x 4 days a week x 4 weeks
LSVT BIG is based on the principle that the brain can learn and change (neuroplasticity) and be 'rewired'. I am not even 1/3 of the way through the course and can attest to significant improvements in
- range of movement
- strength
- speed and duration
- stability and balance
- confidence
Will keep you posted but I just wanted to let you know that thinking big is working for me. :-)
Thanks to Julie Rope and the team at Rope Neuro Physiotherapy. You guys rock!
