Parkinsons Physio: Fight Back and take Control
Parkinson’s Physio: Staying Active, Strong, and in Control
Parkinson’s disease is a progressive neurological condition that primarily affects movement - but with the right support and evidence-based physiotherapy, people can continue to live active, independent lives for many years. Understanding how Parkinson’s affects the body is the first step toward taking back control. Early symptoms such as tremor, stiffness, or changes in movement don’t have to mean giving up your usual routines; they simply signal that your body needs a more targeted approach to movement, balance, and strength.
Modern research now shows that regular exercise and Parkinson’s physio can actually help slow down symptom progression and improve brain health. Structured physical activity - from walking and stretching to strength and balance training - supports mobility, reduces stiffness, and boosts confidence. Starting physiotherapy soon after diagnosis is strongly recommended, as tailored exercise programs help maintain function, prevent falls, and support long-term independence.
Working with a healthcare professional such as a neurological physiotherapist or occupational therapist can make a transformative difference. These specialists assess your individual symptoms and create an exercise plan that challenges you safely, helping you build resilience and “train your brain” to move more freely. Evidence shows that targeted physiotherapy can retrain balance, improve posture, and reduce the fear of falling — giving people with Parkinson’s the tools to fight back, not just manage.
Building a strong support network is another vital part of living well with Parkinson’s. Joining local exercise groups, community gyms, or Parkinson’s UK support groups provides encouragement, structure, and social connection — all proven to boost adherence and motivation. With the right combination of Parkinson’s physio, daily activity, and professional support, many people find they can continue doing the things they love and maintain their quality of life for far longer than they thought possible.
Home Physio for Parkinsons in London and Essex
Our home physio service offers bespoke exercise programmes tailored to each individual’s needs. For example, a physiotherapist may assess your posture or movement patterns to design interventions that address your specific challenges.
Therapists can advise on safe ways to move around your home and suggest modifications to your environment. They also help identify particular difficulties or hazards in your daily activities, ensuring that interventions are targeted to improve your safety and independence. A physiotherapist can teach people with Parkinson's ways to make movements easier, such as walking, turning in bed, and standing up from a chair.
HOME AND GROUP BASED TREATMENT FOR PARKINSON'S
At Estuary Physio we provide bespoke exercise programmes which incorporate both physical and cognitive training for people with Parkinson’s. Clients are educated on how to take a proactive approach to fighting the symptoms of the disease.
Our programmes are supported by a growing body of evidence that shows that high amplitude, high–effort, complex exercise has the potential to slow the progression of Parkinson’s disease, by re-wiring and reorganising the pathways within the brain. This re-wiring and physical conditioning can help you to feel fitter and freer with your movement.
Our Parkinson’s programmes are not the same as attending a local fitness class or gym. Our therapists are there to advise you how to move correctly at the right intensity, ensuring you achieve the desired long-term benefits from our step-by-step programmes.
Many of our clients also take part in our Neuro Move Academy boxing sessions, designed specifically for people with Parkinson’s. These fun, high-energy classes combine aerobic exercise, coordination drills, and cognitive training - all shown in research to help improve mobility, confidence, and reaction time.
Our programmes may include any of the following:
1. High amplitude movements and agility training:
We modify the amplitude and speed of movements to help combat the stiffness, slowness and restrictions resulting from Parkinson’s. These high amplitude exercises are designed to strengthen the muscles affected by Parkinson’s, improving their function and supporting better movement. Strengthening exercises are important for maintaining mobility and reducing muscle stiffness
2. Dual tasking:
Often with Parkinson's movements can become less automatic and more conscious, making it difficult to multi task and concentrate on the world around us. Most everyday tasks involve doing more than one thing at once (standing to brush our teeth, walking whilst holding the dog lead etc). It's essential to incorporate exercises which challenge mental processing and encourage you to do more than one task at a time, preparing you for the real world
3. High intensity circuits and cardio fitness:
High intensity exercise has been shown to improve neuronal activity and delay the progression of Parkinson’s. We use heart rate monitoring equipment to help clients achieve the desired intensity to achieve the best results.
4. Bespoke therapy which meets your requirements:
No matter what level you are at, exercise can be tailored to meet your needs and help you towards your goals. Exercises can start from your chair and be advanced as you progress.
During your initial assessment with one of our specialist neuro physios, you will be asked about your current challenges. They will perform a complete neurological assessment. This assessment will also include different activities which assess your balance, strength, coordination and ability to dual task (do more than one thing at once). Our clinicians use these initial results to monitor your progress during your treatment program.
Our therapists will ask more about your specific goals. Based on these we will help you to create a bespoke programme of exercise to meet your current requirements.
Once you have worked with our therapists to establish a suitable exercise programme, you will have all the tools to stay on top of your condition. If you would prefer to have some extra support long term, you can work with our personal trainers or attend one of our virtual Parkinson's classes.
After your initial period of treatment, you have the option to check in with your therapist and track your progress. Exercise programmes can be adjusted to meet your on-going needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I start Parkinson’s physio?
It’s best to begin Parkinson’s physio as soon as possible after diagnosis. Research shows that early, targeted exercise can slow symptom progression and support long-term independence.
What does Parkinson’s physio involve?
Our programmes combine strength, balance, coordination, and dual-task training. Sessions are evidence-based and adapted to your stage of Parkinson’s, helping you move more freely and safely.
Can physiotherapy really make a difference with Parkinson’s disease?
Yes. Studies show regular, high-amplitude, high-effort exercise improves motor control, confidence, and overall function. Physiotherapy helps retrain the brain and maintain mobility.
Is Parkinson’s physio suitable for all stages of the condition?
Absolutely. Exercise can be tailored for every level — from gentle chair-based routines to high-intensity sessions. Our specialist neuro physios ensure each plan is safe and achievable.
Do you offer home visits for Parkinson’s physio?
Yes. Our home physiotherapy service covers London and Essex, allowing you to receive expert Parkinson’s care in the comfort of your own home.
London
Specialist Physiotherapy
Our specialist physiotherapy service covers a wide range of areas in Central and Greater London
Essex
Specialist Physiotherapy
Our Essex physiotherapists cover areas including Benfleet, Basildon, Rayleigh, Southend and Chelmsford
Specialist Physiotherapy In The Home
The Best in Neuro Physiotherapy Care for You or Your Loved One
At Estuary Physio we know how challenging it can be to access specialist physiotherapy services and continue to make progress with your rehabilitation after leaving hospital
We work with experienced physiotherapists who specialise in neurological physio care. We take a gentle and caring approach and are always on hand to help and advise.
Our team of specialist clinicians offer treatment for:
- neurological-physiotherapy
- Parkinsons and MS
- Chest and Breathing
- COVID-19
- Pre and Post Surgery
- Oncology
- Back, Neck and Joint Pain
- Dementia
We're here to help. Please contact us if you have any questions or to arrange your first appointment with a trusted physio in your area.
Get in touch and speak to our therapy team to find out more.
Medical Review
The information on this page has been reviewed for accuracy by Barry Ford BSc MCSP, Physiotherapist
