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Physical Strength and Parkinsons
Four years ago I went to a sod farm and loaded 40 pc of large sod myself. The next weekend I loaded an additonal 24 pc. I also unloaded and laided them myself at home. It has now been two years since my diagnosis of PD. I went back to the sod farm last weekend and to my suprise and embarrassment couldn't lift a single piece of sod. Is loss of physical strength a part of Parkinson's or am I just letting myself get out of shape?
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Dr. Sanchez-Ramos said...
Tuesday, August 03, 2010 3:02 PM
Actual muscle strength is not affected so much as stamina.  A sense of fatigue comes on very quickly when performing phyical activity.  However,  if you take your medication regularly and participate in physical exercise daily or at least 3 times per week, especially aerobic exercises, your stamina and strength will improve.  Consult with a physical therapist for advice about an exercise problem.  At the very least 30 min a day on a stationary cycle (recumbant bicycle) will do wonders.  Even better is the Ellipitcal workout machine or if the weather is nice, long walks.
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