Ability to stand on one leg is a good measure of a person’s balance, and balance relies on our vision, complex structures in our inner ear and specialised receptors in our muscles.

People with early-onset Parkinson’s Disease and Parkinson’s Disease are at risk of falls, and that risk increases as the disease progresses. As people with PD get older, changes in the inner ear and brain makes it harder to maintain balance. We need to be careful in challenging environments, such as walking in the dark, and situations that involve multitasking, in particular using the phone while walking is a sure way of having a fall.

Regular exercise is key to improving balance, and Tai-chi is often suggested as an exercise that is beneficial for balance. It is also recommended that you incorporate balance exercises in your daily routine such as standing on one leg while you brush your teeth or while waiting for the bus. Always make sure that you are safe and there is something nearby you can use for support should you lose your balance. I would suggest that you avoid balance exercise if alone in the house, and please let others know when you are going to do balance training.

Start today and be a flamingo, take every opportunity to stand on one leg.

There are balance exercises on the UK NHS site follow the link here.

It’s important that a strength and balance training programme is tailored to the individual and monitored by an appropriately trained professional. Support through your local HSE medical centre should be available although there may be a waiting list. Contact details for your local health centre are available on www.HSE.ie. or avail of the services available from the  private sector.

It is very beneficial for people with EOPD to request support from a physiotherapist, either via the Irish HSE or private medical insurance. The support should be provided by a specialist with specific training for people with Parkinson’s.  

Exercise classes are an excellent way to maintain one’s fitness level. There are general exercise classes are available however dedicated Parkinson’s exercise classes are hard to find. Rock Steady Boxing is an example of a fitness program designed specifically for people with Parkinson’s, and the classes help with co-ordination and balance. EOPD.ie are delighted to be able to support Rock Steady Boxing by providing some funding towards the venue hire. All people with Parkinson’s are welcome to join the Rock Steady Boxing.

Please find more information about Rock Steady Boxing and other classes for people with PD on our website here.