5 replies to this topic

[sunny1]

I have recently been searching the internet for information about running and Parkinson's Disease. I am interested in finding out about how running affects the condition and the problems faced by people when running with the condition.

The only information that I found related to this on CR was an article about John Walker.

Are there any runners on the forum with this condition? Do you know anyone with Parkinson's who runs? What difficulties do they face? How do they manage? What effect has running had on their condition?

Please ...

Edited by sunny1, 08 May 2009 - 12:41 AM.

[slowmo]

Hi sunny,

A really interesting topic. I don't have any direct info to offer, sorry, but a google scholar search uncovers quite a lot of papers on this:
http://scholar.google.com.au/scholar?hl=en...sa=N&tab=ws

I imagine that for many sufferers running would be challenging in terms of balance and coordination, although perhaps very helpful in the early stages. Also, as well as some evidence that physical deterioration can be delayed, the mental benefits of running or any other vigorous exercise would be very valuable.

My partner used to work with a late middle-aged man who used kayaking as an exercise therapy for a degenerative condition (not Parkinsons) and found great physical and emotional benefits in that.

slowmo

[blair]

I hope you haven't got Parkinson's Sunny1. My grandfather had Parkinson's and it's not something I would wish on anyone. I can't help with your question though I'm sorry.

[serena]

Hi Sunny1,
I have a friend recently diagnosed with Parkinsons, and although he isn't a runner (he is a walker) he has found that long fast walks help, rather than hinder. I know just from a psychological perspective many of us find running keeps us saner. I sincerely hope running is a plus through this.
serena

[sunny1]

Thanks for all the links SlowMo - I have been reading articles on line all week. And thanks for your concern Balri! Serena, from what I have read, running would help, but surfaces might be an issue (eg not trails with rocks and things).

Happily, I have no need for concern! No family history. Pays to ask sometimes.




(I think that I will still try to get hold of John Ball's book - 'Living Well, Running Hard' - sort of closure on a bit of intense personal research!)

Edited by sunny1, 08 May 2009 - 11:11 PM.

[emi]

You might find this interesting too http://www.stumptuou...-man-in-the-gym
Its not quite running but close.

Edited by emi, 09 May 2009 - 11:53 PM.