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Physiotherapists Help People with Parkinson’s Disease and Stroke
‘Keep Moving’ with Exercise
By Esmé French, Anne MacLeod, and Kirsti Reinikka
Physiotherapists recognize that regular and ongoing exercise is essential to helping clients regain or maximize their mobility, confidence, strength, health, and most importantly, their independence and freedom to function!
Thunder Bay physiotherapists have researched, created, and put into place  specialized exercise programmes in the community which are delivered by trained fitness instructors. ‘Keep Moving with Stroke’, and ‘Keep Moving with Parkinson Disease’ classes are currently being offered at community recreation and senior’s centres in Thunder Bay. Physiotherapists work with participants and fitness instructors to support physical activity opportunities for people living with chronic conditions.
People Growing Stronger!
Brenda Allard, a stroke survivor and participant for many sessions says …“I enjoy having a reason to get out and exercise with other people who have had a stroke. Attending the class regularly has really helped with my balance, walking and overall endurance.”
Other participants said:
“I can put my hands on the chair and boost myself up… a lot of times before, my husband would have to help me and I would be shaking; I can get myself up standing easier.”
“I saw one gentleman who couldn’t lift his leg very high and they were concerned about his posture. All of a sudden one day, when he came in his posture was improved, he was able to lift that leg…”
The expertise of physiotherapists also plays a large role in helping clients to participate  in the community exercise classes. Interested participants are assessed by a physiotherapist to ensure their safety and to make sure the community exercise programmes meet their individual needs and personal goals. Participants are then supported by a physiotherapist in the first few classes to ensure that the programme is right for them. The physiotherapist also maintains a strong, ongoing connection to the participants and is available as a resource when called upon by them or the fitness instructors.
Physiotherapists work in many ways to foster hope in their clients and to facilitate their return to an active lifestyle. The bonds physiotherapists build with their clients and community partners are essential in developing strong, healthy individuals and communities. As another participant in the exercise class states…“I think it (the exercise) helps your mind too, more than just the body, to see improvement in yourself and in other people…anything is possible if you keep working at it.”
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