An exercise program for a patient with Parkinson's disease would MOST likely include exercise to:

An exercise program for a patient with Parkinson's disease would MOST likely include exercise to:

• A. decrease movement of the upper extremities and trunk
• B. increase trunk flexor strength
• C. improve balance reactions and reciprocation
• D. stretch back extensor muscle

Answer: (C)

Training for Parkinson’s disease should focus on enhancing automatic balance control and coordinated movement. Parkinson’s impairs postural reflexes and slows initiation of movement, so practicing balance reactions and reciprocal limb movements helps the person respond to perturbations, maintain stability, and improve gait and daily function. This approach directly addresses the core challenge in PD—postural instability and impaired automatic motor responses—making it the most effective emphasis. While strengthening or stretching the trunk can be helpful as part of a broader program, they don’t directly improve the automatic balance reactions and coordinated control that reduce fall risk.

Training for Parkinson’s disease should focus on enhancing automatic balance control and coordinated movement. Parkinson’s impairs postural reflexes and slows initiation of movement, so practicing balance reactions and reciprocal limb movements helps the person respond to perturbations, maintain stability, and improve gait and daily function. This approach directly addresses the core challenge in PD—postural instability and impaired automatic motor responses—making it the most effective emphasis.

While strengthening or stretching the trunk can be helpful as part of a broader program, they don’t directly improve the automatic balance reactions and coordinated control that reduce fall risk.