Preparation is key!
Preparation is key!
Note: Parkinson's is unique to each individual. The following information is unique to me. This information is provided for informational purposes only. Seek advice from your Medical professional.I started planning to walk 2,000 km 18 months prior. Here's my medical info, medical professionals, medicines, Pre-Trek conditioning, Trekking plan, and Keys to my success.
To summarize, I could not walk without my right foot dragging more than 2,000 meters 18 months prior. Over 18 months, I increased it with some foot dragging to 14,000 steps daily or 5 miles/8 km. My longest walking day was 28,000 steps pre-trek. I did not increase my medication beyond my prescription. I seeked Parkinson's specialists to advise me in medical and walking. My training was 30% of my success, my medical team was 30% and 40% was my determination and positive attitude.
There was no magic answer. If I can do this, you can too. My 'Get Moving Plan' shares my plan.
My medical info:
- 53 year old male, married, retired 12/2016, living in Honolulu in Hawaii.
- Parkinson's disease symptoms began in 2006. Diagnosed 2011.
- Pre-trek condition: Parkinson's mainly right side of body with minor left side issues. Issues include hand tremors, rigidity, non-automatic right leg movement, insomnia and other issues.
Medical Professionals
- Dr Michiko Bruno, Doctor of Neurology, movement disorder specialist
- Dr Michael Lin, family medicine doctor
- Peggy Hill, physical therapist at Ohana Pacific Rehab Services, Parkinson's speciality, LVST training
Medicines
- Pramipexole 0.25 mg (2 pills 3 times daily )
- Carbidoba levadopa 25-100mg (3 pills 5 times daily)
- Azilect 1 mg (1 pill daily)
Pre-Trek conditioning
- 14,000 steps daily walking
- LVST Big stretches 2-3 times daily
- 1-2 hours daily exercise (swimming. Hiking, bicycle, gym workout, etc.) at moderate intensity
Trekking plan
- Maintain pre-trek medicine dosages.
- First dose 30-45 minutes before trekking (Azilect, Pramipexole, Carbidoba levadopa )
- Second dose 75 minutes later (Pramipexole, Carbidoba levadopa )
- Third dose 90-120 minutes after énd dose (Pramipexole, Carbidoba levadopa )
- Lunch
- Fourth dose at lunch (Carbidoba levadopa)
- Fifth and final dose. 90-120 minutes later. (Carbidoba levadopa )
Keys to my success
- Good preparation & planning
- Specialized medical professionals
- Determination and positive 'can do' attitude
- Great support network
- LVST BIG stretches
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