PLYMOUTH, Minnesota — Health experts say Parkinson's disease is one of the fastest growing neurological diseases around the world. According to a Lancet Medical Journal study, there were 6.2 million people living with Parkinson’s from 1990 to 2015. Researchers say that number is expected to double to 12 million by 2049.
In Tennessee, some Parkinson’s patients are using stationary bikes to help reduce tremors and improve their quality of life. Officials with the Cleveland Clinic say spin classes can reduce symptoms as much as 35 percent.
Parkinson’s is a chronic, progressive neurological disease that affects nerve cells in the brain. The disease prevents the body from producing Dopamine, which helps body movement. Common symptoms are tremors or shaking that begins on one side of the body. Less common symptoms include: speech changes, handwriting changes, urinary problems, skin problems, sleeping difficulty and decreased facial expressions.
Parkinson’s patients should contact their family doctor before beginning any fitness class or using any fitness equipment.