Exercise could potentially alleviate Parkinson's disease symptoms
In a groundbreaking research project, a team of scientists from the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) has found that regular exercise could potentially help individuals with Parkinson's disease (PD) manage their symptoms for longer. The study, led by Dr. Yang Chen Hu, an epidemiology student, and senior authors Dr. Cynthia Kusters, Dr. Jeff Bronstein, and Dr. Beate Ritz, sheds light on the role of physical activity in slowing disease progression.
The research was conducted using data collected from the PEG study, which enrolled residents from Fresno, Tulare, and Kern counties in Central California. Detailed neurological examinations for PD patients were carried out by UCLA movement disorder specialists at the UCLA Department of Neurology, ensuring accurate diagnosis, treatment, and interpretation of the study's results.
The study reveals that physical activity could lower chronic inflammation, a significant factor in the development and progression of PD. This decrease in inflammation could play a crucial role in preventing or delaying the onset and worsening of PD symptoms.
Dr. Hu explained that discussions with experts were key to understanding the study results, especially around the changes to immune cells like B-cells and T-cells. Furthermore, Dr. Bronstein pointed out that the researchers calculated DNA-based measures to act as stand-ins for immune system signals known as cytokines, providing insights into how physical activity slows disease progression.
The findings suggest that higher-intensity activities like fast walking, seated dancing, or chair aerobics could be particularly beneficial for people with PD. These activities may help fend off symptoms like worsening tremors, stiffness, and balance issues in people with early-stage PD.
While medication has yet to be found that can slow the progression of PD, several therapies can improve symptoms and maintain a high quality of life (Dr. Bronstein). However, Dr. Bronstein emphasised that physical activity is the one treatment that slows disease progression in PD, but the exact mechanism is not fully understood.
As the director of movement disorders at UCLA's David Geffen School of Medicine, Dr. Bronstein underscored the importance of the expertise of UCLA movement disorder specialists, who were instrumental in diagnosing PD, treating it, and understanding its pathology.
In conclusion, this study provides promising evidence that regular exercise could potentially slow down the progression of Parkinson's disease. More research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms behind this connection, but for now, people with PD should consider incorporating higher-intensity physical activities into their daily routines.
