I recently heard about conductive education for treating PD. Is anyone using it? Is it effective?

[Joanne_Joyce]

[Janew]

I did a course of 10 sessions some time ago and yes, it was quite useful. I still use some of the exercises/techniques. It's based quite strongly on rhythm and moving to the count of 4 for example. The first course was free but it is very expensive to follow up which is a shame as I could do with going more regularly.

[froggatt55 in reply to Janew]

how expensive Janew - do you know? I have heard that it is very good

for us

[Joanne_Joyce in reply to Janew]

From your experience, is it very different from physical therapy?

[Cerelia]

I was diagnosed in December 2001, and started Conductive Education in January 2004, first the 10 free sessions, weekly, then monthly funded by my local branch of Parkinson's UK for a total of about 2 years. Then I had a break, but was offered the chance to go again in 2009, which I did until sometime last year. Although I no longer attend, I find that what I learned there is useful. For instance, when I find myself beginning to stoop and shufflle my feet I can correct this, and I have become more aware of my posture and how to move. It doesn't prevent the need for medication, and when that wears off it's more difficult. but still helpful to remember the techniques. However it's not a cheap option and I am grateful to my local branch for paying not only the cost of the sessions, but transport in the second set of sessions. Also it is only about 10 miles from where I live, but many of the people travelled quite long distances. I think the cost of sessions is more than £35.

I would recommend it if you can, even if it's only for a short time, but it is quite hard work!! 90 minutes of constant exercise, working on every part of the body.It is diifferent from physical therapy and very worth while

conductive-education.org.uk