One of my video viewers wrote to me, asking “What can I do about painful tight calves that tend to cramp during my workouts?”

Parkinson’s disease can greatly affect your proprioception, which is your body’s ability to sense its position and movement in space without relying on sight. This awareness of your body in space is crucial for balance, coordination, and performing everyday tasks. The sensory receptors in your muscles, tendons, and joints send information to your brain. Your brain also relies on your eyes and ears to help orient your position. 

Cramping muscles from Parkinson’s is usually related to a neuromuscular problem versus an electrolyte imbalance. Therefore, you’ll need to address the muscles and connective tissue directly.

When the days get darker and shorter, we tend to become less active and sluggish. Apathy and isolation start to set in. Parkinson’s “Terrible Toos” happen when you let the disease dictate your thoughts, your level of energy, and your mood. You might even feel depressed.

Many people with Parkinson’s disease struggle with speech and swallowing issues. Fortunately, working on your posture, air flow, and enunciation can really help with your communication.