www.parkinsonscambridge.org.uk
Therapies
Aquatherapy (Swimming) for
Parkinson’s
Exercising in water is one of
the best ways to help maintain balance, strength, flexibility and general
fitness, whilst also having some fun! The group is well equipped to ensure safe
exercise, and the buoyancy effect of the water means that there is no risk of
falling whilst exercising. The group
runs on a Thursday afternoon from 2.30 pm to 3.30 pm at the
Chesterton Sports Centre in
The first half hour is for
general swimming of widths or lengths, with floatation aids and assistance
available to those who need it. The second half hour is spent doing aquarobic,
balance, and co-ordination exercises and
ball games to music (from the 60's, 70's and 80's), incorporating a dance
element, which has proved to be beneficial in stimulating brain activity. The
group also offers the opportunity to make friends and there is a cafe at the
sports centre, which is a good place for a chat after the session. The group is
supported by the Cambridge Branch of Parkinson's
If you are interested in
attending or you would like further information, please contact Mrs Laurie
Woolfenden MCSP, (Chartered Physiotherapist registered with the HCPC) at physiomobile@dsl.pipex.com or on 01223
295711. For reasons of safety, Laurie usually likes to have a preliminary
meeting or conversation with those joining the group for the first time.
Aromatherapy for Parkinson’s
Aromatherapy massage uses
essential plant oils which are anti-inflammatory, analgesic and anti-fungal, so
can relieve a number of common Parkinson’s symptoms including pain, tension,
sleeplessness and constipation. The
Parkinson’s consultants have approved Aromatherapy for their patients.
This therapy is available to
all who attend the 4th Friday of the month Branch meetings at the
The treatment is free, but
contributions towards the cost are welcome.
Music Therapy and Parkinson’s
Taking part in music therapy
can be incredibly beneficial for any individual and is particularly so for
people who have Parkinson’s, and their carers.
Music Therapy meets every
Friday at the Arbury Community Centre,
No previous experience is
required; all abilities are welcomed. The main focus is enjoyment and a
positive social experience. We sing well-known songs chosen by the group from a
variety of genres; this group experience and the memories that are often evoked
through particular songs, can be both a cathartic and a rewarding
experience.
We also do some breathing
and articulation exercises aimed particularly at supporting and alleviating
Parkinson’s symptoms such as loss of voice and range of movement.
It is important not to
become isolated as a result of being diagnosed with Parkinson’s, and we are a
friendly and welcoming group, so please get in touch and join in.
The therapy is supported by
the Cambridge Branch of Parkinson’s but there is a small charge for
participation.
Contact Alison Shaw, BA, MA
(in Music Therapy); First Aid qualified, at ashaw.musictherapy@gmail.com or
07936191655 (during working hours Mon-Fri)
Here are some links to some
more information available about music therapy and Parkinson’s
https://www.michaeljfox.org/foundation/news-detail.php?music-as-medicine-for-the-mind
http://www.musictherapyworks.co.uk/benefits
Yoga
Yoga for Parkinson’s
provides light exercise based on Yoga stretches and postures plus breathing
practises and some relaxation. The work is adapted to suit each individual
where possible, and several students work with support and/or chair and
wheelchair. The class keeps people mobile, flexible and strong. The breathing
practises and relaxation help concentration, relieve stress factors and promote
more efficient breathing, which will in turn impact in a positive way
throughout the body. Contact Denise Sibley-Moore, BSc, BWYdip, at denise@sibleymooreyoga.co.uk or
on 01954 202235,
This page updated 10 October
2018