Which condition is a contraindication to exercise for Parkinson's disease?

Which condition is a contraindication to exercise for Parkinson's disease?

• A. Mild tremor.
• B. Severe freezing or instability without supervision.
• C. Slight bradykinesia.
• D. Normal range of motion.

Answer: (B)

Safety during activity is the main idea here. Exercise is generally beneficial for Parkinson’s, but severe freezing of gait or significant postural instability without supervision creates a high risk of falls and injury. If someone can’t be supervised, there isn’t enough support to manage sudden balance loss or grabbing for support in case of slipping or freezing, so starting or continuing exercise unsupervised is contraindicated. The other signs—mild tremor, slight bradykinesia, or normal range of motion—are common PD features and don’t by themselves make exercise unsafe; they can typically be managed with appropriate programming, cues, and safety precautions.

Safety during activity is the main idea here. Exercise is generally beneficial for Parkinson’s, but severe freezing of gait or significant postural instability without supervision creates a high risk of falls and injury. If someone can’t be supervised, there isn’t enough support to manage sudden balance loss or grabbing for support in case of slipping or freezing, so starting or continuing exercise unsupervised is contraindicated. The other signs—mild tremor, slight bradykinesia, or normal range of motion—are common PD features and don’t by themselves make exercise unsafe; they can typically be managed with appropriate programming, cues, and safety precautions.