RehabifyWhat Parkinson's can change
- Slowness of movement (bradykinesia) and smaller steps
- Stiffness (rigidity) of muscles
- Tremor, often at rest
- Balance and falls, especially when turning
- Freezing, when the feet feel stuck to the floor
- Stooped posture, soft voice, small handwriting and swallowing changes
- Non-movement symptoms such as poor sleep, constipation, low mood and tiredness
Who should see a rehab doctor
Signs to get checked
- Anyone newly diagnosed, to start an exercise plan early
- People with falls, near falls or freezing
- People finding it harder to dress, get out of a chair or turn in bed
- People with stooped posture, back or shoulder pain
- Families wanting advice on home safety and support
What happens at Rehabify
- 01
History
Symptoms, medicines and timing, falls, and daily routines.
- 02
Examination
Walking, turning, balance tests, posture, strength, flexibility and how you get up from a chair.
- 03
Goals
Such as walking outdoors safely, getting up without help or reducing falls.
- 04
Home and family
Fall-proofing the home, walking aid advice and family training.
The doctor decides the right tests and treatment for you after examining you.
Before and after your visit
How to prepare
- Bring your list of medicines with timings, and your neurologist's notes
- Plan the visit when your medicines are working well, unless asked otherwise
- Bring a family member and any walking aid you use
- Note when falls or freezing happen
After your visit
Video follow-ups help keep your exercise programme up to date as needs change. You can send questions on WhatsApp between visits.
When to get help urgently
Common questions
Does exercise help Parkinson's disease?
Yes. Regular exercise improves walking, balance, strength and flexibility, and helps people stay independent for longer. It works alongside medicines, not instead of them. The best programme is one you can do regularly and enjoy.
What can I do when my feet freeze?
Cueing strategies often help, such as stepping over a line on the floor, counting or walking to a beat, or shifting your weight before stepping. The team will teach strategies that work for you and practise them in real situations.
How can falls be prevented with Parkinson's?
Exercise for balance and strength, take medicines on time, turn slowly in wide arcs, use good lighting and remove loose rugs. Grab bars in the bathroom and the right walking aid also help. The team will check your home risks with you.
Is it worth starting rehab soon after diagnosis?
Yes. Starting exercise early helps build fitness and habits that support you as the condition changes. Early rehab can also address posture and balance before problems appear.
Does Rehabify change my Parkinson's medicines?
Your neurologist manages Parkinson's medicines. The rehab doctor may share observations, such as when symptoms worsen during the day, with your consent, to help your neurologist plan treatment.
Sources
- [1]
National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) guideline NG71. Parkinson's disease in adults
- [2]
European Physiotherapy Guideline for Parkinson's Disease (KNGF and ParkinsonNet)
- [3]
World Health Organization (WHO). Parkinson disease: a public health approach, technical brief, 2022
This page is for general education and does not replace a consultation. The right plan depends on your examination.