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How to Get Strong Legs for Parkinson's Patients

Exercise is good for everyone, but for a person with Parkinson's Disease, it's vital. Because Parkinson's is a degenerative disorder of the central nervous system, it impairs the sufferer's motor skills, speech and other functions. It's characterized by muscle rigidity, tremor, slowing of physical movement and, in extreme cases, loss of movement. Gardening, walking and swimming are examples of good exercises for a Parkinson's patient, but for strengthening the legs specifically, try these moves recommended by Parkinson's Hope, a website devoted to helping people live with the disease.

Things You'll Need

  • Armless chair with a supportive back
  • Towel
  • Stable and firm table or chair
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Instructions

  1. Knee Extension for Thigh and Shin Muscles

    • 1

      Sit in the chair with only your toes and the balls of your feet touching the floor. You can use a rolled towel under your knees to raise your feet, if necessary. Rest your hands on your legs or along the sides of the chair.

    • 2

      Slowly lift one leg out in front of you. Try to keep your leg straight and complete this movement smoothly.

    • 3

      Curl your foot so that your toes are directed toward your head. Hold this pose briefly.

    • 4

      Lower your leg and rest for a few seconds.

    • 5

      Repeat the exercise with the other leg, completing 10 repetitions with each leg.

    • 6

      Rest briefly and then repeat another set of this exercise.

    Slide Leg Raise for hips and thighs

    • 7

      Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart and hold on to a table or chair that won't slip.

    • 8

      Raise your leg slowly out to the side, moving it 6 inches to 10 inches from your resting leg, if possible. Your toes should point forward and your back and legs should not bend.

    • 9

      Hold this position briefly.

    • 10

      Lower your leg in a smooth motion and rest for a few seconds.

    • 11

      Repeat exercise with the other leg. Complete 10 repetitions with each leg, switching from one leg to the other.

    • 12

      Rest briefly and then do another set of 10 repetitions.

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