Moving like ‘warriors’
A Sydney-based neurological physiotherapist is helping people in the early stages of Parkinson’s disease turn into ‘warriors’. Melissa McConaghy recently launched the PD Warrior program, which is a ‘whole-body’ exercise program targeting the primary impairments of slow and small movements.
A Sydney-based neurological physiotherapist is helping people in the early stages of Parkinson’s disease turn into ‘warriors’.
Melissa McConaghy recently launched the PD Warrior program, which is a ‘whole-body’ exercise program targeting the primary impairments of slow and small movements.
She reveals to DPS News there are hopes the program will “slow” the progression of the disease.
“The main thing is these patients are not being treated at the moment… we need to latch on to something that is effective.
“There is every chance people starting an intense exercise program early in their disease can slow disease progression both at the clinical and cellular level,” Ms McConaghy says.
Describing the program as a ‘Sydney-first’, Ms McConaghy says the aim is to roll out the work nationwide.
The rewards and benefits of the program are life-changing – not only for clients, but also for Ms McConaghy herself.
“After attending a few sessions of the program, one lady who had not put make-up on in five or six years began to do so again.
“People have pre-conceived notions the Parkinson’s population is all doom and gloom; but honestly, it’s exciting, challenging and has good community spirit.
“I guess dementia is the catch phrase at the moment, but people need to know Parkinson’s and exercise really can create a better quality of life.”
For more information about the PD Warrior program, visit www.archealth.com.au
