Why neurological physiotherapy is so important after a Parkinson’s Disease diagnosis
Receiving a Parkinson’s Disease (PD) diagnosis can feel overwhelming. Medication plays a major role in managing symptoms, but neurological physiotherapy is a clinically effective intervention that should be considered when you are figuring out your first steps for managing this condition.
Neurological physiotherapy doesn’t just focus on exercise, it supports the maintenance of independence, aims to improve quality of life, and enables you to stay in control for as long as possible. Here’s why neurological physiotherapy is so important after a PD diagnosis.
- Early intervention leads to better long-term outcomes
PD is a progressive neurological condition, meaning your symptoms will likely get worse over time. Starting neurological physiotherapy soon after diagnosis helps to slow the progression of physical symptoms and maintains strength, flexibility, and balance.
- Movement problems begin subtly
Many people with early stage PD don’t notice significant movement issues right away. However, neurological physiotherapists are specialists in analysing:
- Subtle changes in your gait (walking pattern)
- Reduced arm swing
- Poor posture
- Decreased coordination and/or reaction time
Early intervention helps address these issues before they cause falls or serious limitations.
- A tailored and personalised neurological physiotherapy programme can help manage the most common symptoms of PD, including:
- Bradykinesia (slowness of movement)
- Rigidity (muscle stiffness)
- Postural instability
- Freezing of gait
A programme may include:
- Gait training
- Balance exercises
- Stretching routines
- Strength and posture work
- Cueing strategies (visual, auditory, and tactile)
These help people move more freely, safely, and confidently in their daily lives.
- Encourages neuroplasticity — the brain’s ability to adapt
Research has demonstrated that exercise and movement stimulate neuroplasticity, the brain’s ability to form new connections and compensate for damaged areas.
This is especially important in PD, where movement control is disrupted. Repetitive, high-intensity, task-specific movements can help reinforce motor pathways and maintain your functional ability for longer.
- Boosts confidence and mental wellbeing
A PD diagnosis can bring feelings of uncertainty about the future, anxiety and a sense of isolation. Neurological physiotherapy offers:
- A sense of control over the management of your condition
- Encouragement and goal setting
- Social interaction (especially in group therapy)
Being physically active can boost mood, reduce stress, and improve confidence — all of which contribute to better overall health.
- Personalised and ongoing support
No two people experience PD in the same way. Neurological physiotherapists provide:
- Individualised treatment plans
- Education for you and your family and/or caregivers
- Ongoing assessment and adjustments as your condition changes
They can become trusted members of your support team, helping to to navigate each stage of PD with the right tools and strategies.
If you or a loved one has recently been diagnosed with PD, please don’t wait to get neurological physiotherapy involved. It is not just about reacting to symptoms, it is about staying active, mobile, and independent for as long as possible.
At Neurological Physiotherapy we have a specialised team of therapists and services to offer anyone with PD. This includes our one to one physiotherapy sessions, PD specific exercise classes focusing on balance, strength, co-ordination, flexibility, amplitude of movement, dual tasking and cardiovascular fitness and workshops that encourage you to manage your condition holistically. If you would like more information please contact us.
