News that Rock Steady Boxing works for PD patients
The Miami Herald wrote a feature story about a local Rock Steady Boxing program. Deep in it was real news about research confirming the program’s effectiveness. Here is the nugget:
“Stephanie Combs-Miller, associate professor at the University of Indianapolis’ Krannert School of Physical Therapy, recently conducted the first major study on the effects of boxing therapy on Parkinson’s. Over a two-year period, 88 volunteers, half of whom participated in Rock Steady Boxing, were tracked every six months using physical therapy assessments.
“’We found that people who exercise in a boxing program demonstrated a higher level of function,’’ she said in a release about a lecture she was giving on the subject.
“The theory is that the combination of activities connected to the boxing helps develop strength, agility, endurance and flexibility. Over time, the participants who did the program demonstrated significantly better balance and walking function, compared with Parkinson’s patients who chose other forms of exercise.”
Combs-Miller’s study has not yet been published in a scientific journal. There has been widespread scuttlebutt that the results were positive,
On a personal note, I continue the training three times a week and have improved balance, agility and coordination. My off days are way down. An informal poll of my exercise mates confirmed my experience was also theirs.
A Beautiful You Tube video on participatory medicine
Don’t miss this video on the benefits of a collaborative relationship between doctor and PD patient. It goes to the heart of the argument for a revolution in the continuity of Parkinson’s care.
A Deserved knock on PD treatment nostrums
My friend and fellow retired editor Doug Clifton has written a lovely essay on the dangers of nostrum remedies for PD. Check it out.
PDF Help Line
The Parkinson Disease Foundation offers a reminder about its help line. Someday I hope to have a local version for Tampa Bay.
Do you have questions about Parkinson’s? PDF’s HelpLine team is ready to be a resource for you, your loved ones and patients. Our information specialists
are available Monday through Friday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM ET at (800) 457-6676 or info@pdf.org. They can answer questions about PD, point you toward local doctors, support groups and resources, and send free educational materials.
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