Parkinson’s disease affects nearly one million people in the US, and the symptoms tend to worsen over time. However, a new program has been created that utilizes the power of spin cycling to help manage this condition.
Lamont Dorrity, a 63-year-old man diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease at the age of 50, experienced symptoms such as tremors and muscle stiffness. Although deep brain stimulation surgery helped with his tremors, other symptoms were still progressing. About a year ago, Dorrity joined a research-backed program called “Pedaling for Parkinson’s.”
Led by exercise therapist Adam Ballenger, the program involves forced cycling at a high rate of at least 80 RPMs for at least 40 minutes. The exercise helps pump dopamine into the brain and has shown to improve Parkinson’s-related symptoms significantly. Participants like Dorrity have reported feeling more fluid in their movements and experiencing improvements in balance and confidence.
The results of this program have been impressive, with some participants seeing their Parkinson’s symptoms improve by up to 35 percent. This shows the potential for slowing the progression of the disease. Despite its positive impact on patients, the program at Intermountain Health is currently on hold. Both Ballenger and Dorrity encourage more Parkinson’s patients to consider pedaling as an effective way to manage their condition.
In conclusion, spin cycling can be an effective tool in managing symptoms associated with Parkinson’s disease. While there is no cure for this condition, programs like Pedaling for Parkinson’s offer hope for those affected by it.