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I have had many falls. Only bad result so far (outside of bruising, soreness) is a broken rib. Chiro has me doing balance exercises next to a door/wall, standing on one leg at a time. PD exercise leader suggest wrapping/tightening leg and butt muscles as much as possible on the standing leg. Other leg is held off the ground/floor as long as you can maintain balance. Look straight ahead (I almost always look down.)
Does anyone have a way of balancing they'd like to share?
Answer Summary
Members responded with a wide range of helpful strategies for improving balance in the context of Parkinson's disease, with many pointing to... Read more
Before diagnosed with PD I worked on balance in water therapy. This year I completed gym physical therapy working on balance and core strength. Although I made good progress I know myself well enough to realize I’d probably not maintain where I was by myself. I found a Tai Chi class where I hope to continue improving.
@A MyParkinsonsTeam Member, I recently finished taking the LVST Big program, designed specifically for people with PD. In Europe they use the Big and Loud (speech) program before they must start medication. I can now get out of a chair without a struggle, I can get up off the floor if I do fall, and if I start to fall I know how to stop it, or at least lower myself so the fall isn't as bad.
In view of all the answers, i would say there are a number of ways to regain some, or all, of your balance. I hope some of these suggestions help.
Hugs,
Teresa
Balance classes are held in my area entitled "Strictly no falls!" They last for 1 hour and are very useful. I have improved my balance in many ways since starting the class. We do a number of exercises with weights strapped around our ankles - raising one leg to horizontal over a count of 3, and lowering it to a count of 5; repeating that for 5 times, then similar with the other leg. Also a variety of other positions before removing the weights.
We also stand with one foot directly behind the other, with a gap of 2 or 3 inches between the feet, and standing next to a chair, holding on until we have achieved our balance, then letting go if possible whilst holding the position, or just holding on with one or two fingers. I find this quite hard, but over the weeks I am improving. We also walk up and down the hall, first on tiptoes, then on heels. Tiptoes I can do, but heels are very hard. There are other exercises more difficult for me to describe.
We pay £5 a week and end up with a cup of coffee and a biscuit - I believe the classes are subsidised in some way. - the hire of the hall etc.
This sort of class should be more available, perhaps even available on prescription for those who need them. It would save so much money when people don't need medical treatment for falls.
Do other people go to similar classes?
Best wishes
Audrey
@A MyParkinsonsTeam Member iI am in Tai Chi for health following Dr Paul Lam program. I keep a wood chair beside me to use during some of moves. My balance is improving after 4 weeks2x week.
My physical therapy had me doing balances : pick a room that is long and clear
< We used the counter top in kitchen space Before u began have someone with you as u do these (1)walk back and fourth several times (2)walk foot in front of each other straight line this is where u may need to hold on to counter as u walk few times (3)take giant steps comfortable for u. (4) walk forward to the end of counter and stop I had to walk backward which I did ok jt I caustion u not to if u r un sable.! If u r interested I will tell u more next time
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