Aquatic therapy can be beneficial for those with Parkinson's disease. The person administering the therapy should have an assistant for each person in the group.
Walking in the Pool
This is an excellent exercise for those with Parkinson's disease. The tremors that are associated with Parkinson's may diminish while the person is in the pool walking. It is best to walk in water that is waist deep. The assistant should be next to the person, ready to help him if there is a loss of balance. Simply walking against the resistance of the water will help build strength.
Breathing
The person with Parkinson's can practice a breathing technique for swimming. This should be in shallow water so he can get on his knees. The face is placed face in the water. The person blows bubbles and then turns his head to the side to get more air. There are dangers in this exercise. An assistant should be nearby to help if the patient slips.
Arm Stroke
A person with Parkinson's can work on the arm stroke while working with an assistant. Working in shallow water, the assistant can be right next to the patient, ready to put a hand under the midsection if there is any slippage or panic. The patient needs to take an overhead swimming stroke in order to get the full benefit. As he lifts his left arm out of the water, he should turn to his left to breathe. The assistant should be on the right side as to not get in the way. This can go on for two or three minutes. Many of those with Parkinson's find that tremors lessen significantly while they are in the water. A person with Parkinson's who does aquatic therapy every day may also notice a lessening of tremors on an everyday basis.
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