If you have Parkinson’s, you’ve probably heard that exercise intensity is important. Research shows that exercising at 80 to 85 percent of your maximum heart rate can slow the progression of Parkinson’s symptoms. But what if your heart rate doesn’t seem to increase the way it’s supposed to? What if you have health problems or take medication that makes it impossible?

Shoulder pain is one of the most common complaints among people living with Parkinson’s disease. While many assume it’s caused by a rotator cuff injury, the real sources of the pain are often the shoulder blade and the muscles that support it.

It’s very common for people with Parkinson’s to complain of shoulder pain. Many people think it’s a rotator cuff injury. While it may be, often the pain stems from shoulder blade tightness or dysfunction.

Many discussions about exercise and Parkinson’s focus on reaching 80 to 85 percent of your maximum heart rate. Research has shown that higher-intensity aerobic exercise may offer important benefits, which is why heart rate often gets so much attention.

The vestibular system is your body’s internal balance center. The inner ear constantly sends information to your brain about your head position, movement, and spatial orientation. Together with your vision and sensation from your muscles and joints, the vestibular system helps you stay upright and move safely through your environment.