Hi,
I have a client with Parkinson’s with no tremors, but pain in the lower back and right shoulder. She needs to improve her strength globally and has a severe lean to the right and severe kyphosis. I would like to do basic strength progressions at whatever level she is capable of doing at the range of movements she is able to do and go from there. The trouble I’m having is that even gripping a 1kg dumbbell is causing increased pain both during and for about 2 days after training. Any suggestions as to find an appropriate starting point would be very much appreciated.
Hey JackG,
I would train this person like anyone else. What are their goals? Do they want to do strength training? What’s their prior training history?
Have you discussed the meaning of pain with the person?
If holding onto the dumbells/barbells is causing pain, maybe a machine-based strength program could work for them. Or if hand grip is still the issue, maybe wrist straps or hooks could be substituted?
You’ll probably be more likely to get responses from folks who have worked with that population if you post this question on the moderated forum. I’m just some rando on the internet.