Exercise For Parkinson's Disease

How Physiotherapy and Home-Based Rehabilitation Can Help

Parkinson’s disease is a progressive neurological condition that affects movement, balance, coordination and muscle control. While medication plays an important role, exercise is one of the most effective ways to help manage symptoms and maintain independence.

At Village Physio, we provide specialist home physiotherapy for people living with Parkinson’s disease across Rotherham, Sheffield, Doncaster and Barnsley, helping individuals stay active, steady and confident in their own homes.

Why Exercise Is Important in Parkinson’s Disease

Regular, targeted exercise can:

• Improve walking speed and stride length

• Reduce stiffness and muscle rigidity

• Improve balance and reduce falls risk

• Increase strength and endurance

• Support posture and breathing

• Boost mood and overall quality of life

Parkinson’s affects the brain’s ability to coordinate smooth movement. Without regular activity, symptoms such as slowness, stiffness and instability can worsen more quickly. Exercise acts as neurological training, helping the brain reinforce movement patterns and maintain function for longer.

Can Exercise Slow the Progression of Parkinson’s?

While Parkinson’s cannot currently be cured, research suggests regular physical activity may help protect brain function and slow physical decline. Structured exercise can:

• Maintain mobility for longer

• Delay loss of independence

• Reduce complications linked to inactivity

• Improve long-term health outcomes

The earlier exercise is introduced, the greater the long-term benefit.

Best Types of Exercise for Parkinson’s Disease

An effective physiotherapy programme is always tailored to the individual, but commonly includes:

• Aerobic exercise, such as walking or cycling to improve stamina and cardiovascular health

• Strength training to improve muscle power and support everyday movements

• Balance exercises to reduce falls risk and improve stability

• Stretching to reduce stiffness and improve posture

• Functional movement practice, such as turning, stepping and sit-to-stand training

How Physiotherapy Can Help

Specialist physiotherapy provides structured, targeted support beyond general exercise. At Village Physio, we offer:

• One-to-one home physiotherapy

• Personalised exercise programmes

• Falls prevention and balance rehabilitation

• Gait retraining

• Advice and support for family members and carers

• Long-term progression planning

Home-based physiotherapy is particularly helpful for people with Parkinson’s who may find travel tiring or difficult. Treatment takes place in a familiar environment, allowing exercises to be directly linked to real-life challenges within the home.

Parkinson’s Physiotherapy in South Yorkshire

Village Physio provides professional, unrushed, one-hour appointments in the comfort of your own home across Rotherham, Sheffield, Doncaster and Barnsley. You do not need a GP referral to book private physiotherapy.

If you or a loved one is living with Parkinson’s disease and would like support with mobility, balance or confidence, early intervention can make a significant difference. Get in touch today to arrange a home assessment.