Parkinson’s and Hip Awareness Month
P is for Parkinsons… Focusing on Treatment through Exercise
Did you know that Parkinson’s disease affects about one million people in the U.S. and 10 million worldwide? Unfortunately, that number is on the rise. Parkinson’s is a lifelong neurological disease that affects the area of the brain that controls mobility. What makes it particularly challenging is that no two people will share the same experience because of the various possible symptoms and related severity. Even with these challenges, those living with Parkinson’s are continuing to thrive and lead fulfilling lives.
Parkinson’s is a movement disorder which causes diverse symptoms which develop often slowly over time and range from tremors and difficulty walking to anxiety, depression, sleep issues and thinking problems. Existing symptoms tend to worsen over time and can change daily or even hourly, while symptoms can also develop. The good news is that exercise can help to control the symptoms of Parkinson’s and in some cases slow the progression of the disease.
Dynamic mobility tools, such as the Activator poles offer an effective but low impact cardiovascular workout and enhance motor function, improve gait, balance, and overall quality of life for those living with Parkinson’s and can be used in both standing and seated positions depending on the progression of the disease. Active living with Parkinson’s is not only possible but easy and accessible as our poles are always ready to provide additional support.
There is an undeniable correlation between the benefits of exercise and disease management and treatment which gives those living with Parkinson’s a sense of empowerment and hope for improved outcomes and a brighter future. We’ll be there every step of the way!
Joints Matter- Hip Awareness Month
April is also Hip Awareness Month so let’s give this important and pivotal joint the attention it deserves. The hip is one of the most stable joints in the body and because it supports your body weight, it’s also more susceptible to pain. Hip pain can be caused by arthritis, or injury to muscles, tendons or bursae (small, filled fluid sacs) that cushion and lubricate joints. Chronic hip pain causes not only discomfort but can affect daily living activities such as sitting, standing or walking. About 10% of the population suffer from hip pain, which only increases as we age.
The hip is a bone and the sooner we start taking proactive measures for bone health, the greater the chances of leading more active lives when we’re older. Three essential components of bone health are weight bearing, strength training and balance. The good news is that you can work on all of them just by adding a pair of Urban or Activator poles to your daily walking routine. They help strengthen and support total body health by engaging more of your muscles while also targeting your core. Not to mention the extra balance and stability while you walk as 4 points of contact are always better than 2. For those who experience discomfort from painful hips or need hip surgery, our Activator poles: support pain management through offloading
