Top 7 Effective Facial Exercises for Parkinson’s Disease Patients
If you or someone you know is dealing with Parkinson’s disease, you’re probably aware of the variety of symptoms that come with this condition. While most people associate Parkinson’s with tremors and difficulty with movement, facial expressions can also be impacted by this disease. For this reason, facial exercises can be incredibly beneficial for Parkinson’s disease patients to help maintain and possibly improve their facial expression and communication abilities.
What Facial Exercises Can Do for Parkinson’s Patients
Facial exercises can help maintain and improve the range of motion in the face, which can be limited in Parkinson’s disease patients. These exercises can also strengthen the facial muscles, which can help in communicating emotions and expressing oneself better. Additionally, exercising facial muscles can improve blood flow and reduce stiffness in the face and jaw.
The Top 7 Facial Exercises for Parkinson’s Patients
1. Lip Stretch
Pucker the lips together, then stretch them out as far as they will go. Hold for a few seconds before relaxing and repeating.
2. Eyebrow Lifter
Place your fingers above the eyebrows and smooth downwards. At the same time, lift your eyebrows as high as possible. Hold for a few seconds and release.
3. Cheek Lifter
Puff out your cheeks and smile as wide as possible. Hold for a few seconds and then relax.
4. Tongue Strengthener
Press your tongue firmly against the roof of your mouth. Hold for a few seconds before relaxing and repeating.
5. Jaw Loosener
Open your mouth as wide as possible and stick out your tongue. Hold for a few seconds before relaxing and repeating.
6. Kiss the Sky
Look towards the ceiling and pucker your lips as if you’re blowing a kiss. Hold for a few seconds before relaxing.
7. Smile Maker
Place your fingers at the corners of your mouth and gently lift up towards your nose. Smile as wide as possible and hold for a few seconds before relaxing.
Tips for Effective Facial Exercises
It’s important to remember to do these exercises slowly and carefully, as quick or jerky movements can lead to injury. Additionally, it’s crucial to do these exercises every day, even if for only a few minutes. Consistency is key in seeing results.
Conclusion
Facial exercises can make a huge difference in the lives of Parkinson’s disease patients, helping them express themselves better and feel more in control of their communication abilities. By incorporating these exercises into their daily routines, Parkinson’s patients can experience improved facial range of motion and strengthened facial muscles. Give these exercises a try and see the difference they can make!
