Are You “Not Quite Ready” for Parkinson’s Medication? Here’s What to Consider
Are You “Not Quite Ready” for Parkinson’s Medication? Here’s What to Consider
At Sunshine Coast Parkinson’s Exercise Centre, we meet many people who are navigating the journey of Parkinson’s disease in their own way. One common concern we hear is, “I don’t think I’m ready for medication yet.”
This is completely understandable. Deciding when to start Parkinson’s medication is a personal choice, and it’s important to feel comfortable and informed about your decision. While some people delay medication for as long as possible, hoping to manage their symptoms naturally, it’s worth considering the potential benefits of starting treatment earlier rather than later.
Does Starting Medication Early Make a Difference?
For many people, yes. Medication can help manage symptoms like tremors, stiffness, and slow movement, making everyday tasks easier and improving overall quality of life. Some key benefits include:
✅ Better mobility: Medication can help you move more freely, making daily activities and exercise easier.
✅ Improved confidence: When movement feels easier, people often feel more independent and in control.
✅ More effective exercise: Exercise is one of the best ways to slow Parkinson’s progression, and medication can make it easier to fully participate in movement-based therapy.
✅ Symptom relief for a better quality of life: Many people find they have more energy and fewer movement difficulties once their symptoms are better managed.
Starting medication earlier doesn’t mean your condition is worse—it simply means you’re giving your brain the support it needs to function more efficiently. Parkinson’s medications work by replacing or enhancing dopamine, the chemical that helps control movement. By maintaining more stable dopamine levels, you may find it easier to move, exercise, and stay engaged in life.
Balancing Medication with Exercise
We know that exercise is a key part of Parkinson’s management—and we strongly encourage staying active. But when symptoms like tremors, stiffness, or slowness make movement difficult, medication can be a valuable tool to help you get the most out of your exercise sessions.
If your symptoms are interfering with your ability to catch up with friends, walk along the Mooloolaba boardwalk or the beautiful Buderim Forest Park walk, swim, play golf or do your strength exercises at home, it might be time to consider whether medication could help you move more easily and confidently.
Making the Choice That’s Right for You
At the end of the day, the decision to start medication is yours. There’s no right or wrong answer—only what feels right for your individual journey. However, if you’re finding that tremors, rigidity, or mobility issues are affecting your daily life, it may be worth having an open conversation with your GP, Neurologist or Parkinson’s specialist.
It’s not about “giving in” to medication—it’s about giving yourself the best chance to stay active, engaged, and in control of your life.
If you’d like to discuss how exercise and medication work together to help you feel your best, we’re always here to chat. Feel free to reach out or speak with us at your next class!
Stay informed. Stay active. Stay in control. 💙
